what cities to visit in alaska

16 of the Cutest and Best Towns in Alaska

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: April 5, 2022

Categories North America

Welcome to the last frontier…Alaska! A place where you can routinely expect the unexpected from many of the best towns in Alaska.

Because this state? Well, it’s a beyond magical place where you can discover abandoned Russian cemeteries, behold the wonder of airports that are actually staffed by friendly people, and step inside local watering holes where people look like they just walked off the set of Sixteen Candles .

And just in case you’re wondering, I mean that in the BEST possible way.

Because Alaska is a wild place (in more ways than one) that is filled with an eclectic variety of people who have come here to wander, escape the 9 to 5 grind, fight the power, and basically enjoy the majesty that is the great outdoors.

So, if you want to get off the beaten path, or stay on the well-trodden tourist trail, and explore all of the absolute best towns in Alaska, then THIS is the post for you.

It’s absolutely overflowing with expert advice on what to see, do, and eat in all of the best towns in Alaska – making this the perfect resource for planning the ideal, Alaska itinerary.

Therefore, stop dreaming and start living the Alaska trip of a lifetime with this amazing resource on all of the best towns in Alaska – places that you should 110% visit right now!

Dear wonderful, beautiful, and oh-so-amazing reader (Yup, I lay it on thick for my dozens of fans). Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high probability (like 99.999%) that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Best Towns in Alaska in the North

1. anchorage.

If you only go to one of the best towns in Alaska then Anchorage will probably be it (Spoiler Alert: You should definitely visit other towns in Alaska besides Anchorage #justayin’).

And that makes sense since most flights to this beyond epic state will drop you off, boop, right in Anchorage.

But, thankfully, Anchorage has WAY more to offer than epic accessibility.

Because this super snazzy city sits smack dab in the middle of two 5,000 foot tall mountains and is nestled along Cook Inlet – a lovely body of water that is filled with salmon (they creep me out and I think they are the ugliest fish ever) and whales aplenty (including fin, minke, humpback, gray, and orcas…oh my!).

This also happens to be Alaska’s largest city with a whopping 300,000 awesome residents who are only too happy to introduce you to awesome cultural sites like the Anchorage Museum (check out the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, which has 600+ Alaska native artifacts), the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Ship Creek Viewing Platform, the historic Oscar Anderson house, and more!

Yup, it’s an awesome place that is brimming over with exhibits that feature traditional crafts, replicas of indigenous homes, and even dance stages where you can see live performances.

So yeah, don’t let the large swaths of strip malls and urban sprawl prevent you from falling in love with this great city during a lovely, one-hour trolley tour of the area.

Especially since Anchorage makes a great home base from which you can explore vast natural areas (yes Chugach, Kenai and Talkeetna, I’m looking at you) that are semi-nearby (Fairbanks is like a 6-hour drive away and you could do an epic day trip to Matanuska Glacier).

There are also a ton of great restaurants here that serve nothing but the freshest seafood and organic produce, including Orso. it’s a stunning, local eatery where you can enjoy, duh, Alaskan crusted halibut, fresh calamari, and Glacier Brewhouse beers (brunch here is pretty rad too).

And if you need a great place to stay, try The Voyager Inn! It’s nothing super fancy but is well priced at under $100 per night, is centrally located, super safe, has great staff, and is a 3-star hotel where you can enjoy a comfy, cozy stay!

2. Kodiak Island

If you’re looking to get back into nature then Kodiak Island is one of the best towns in Alaska for you.

Okay, “town” is kind of a loose term since it’s the second-largest island in the US (after the big island in Hawaii) and part of the larger Kodiak Archipeligo.

However, it’s a great place to visit if you want to understand what “real” Alaska is like and if you want to see brown bears, brown bears, and, oh yeah, more brown bears.

Because this natural, green mountain oasis is filled with salmon – a tasty treat for these next-level enormous bears love – and has a tiny northeastern corner that is basically the only settlement in the area that is aptly named Kodiak.

Whatever you do though, do not miss out on Fossil Beach, the Kodiak Military History Museum (if you’re into that sort of thing), North End Park, Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, Baranov Museum, and Holy Resurrection Chruch (FYI, it’s the oldest Russian Orthodox Church in North America and dates back to 1794) before exploring the vast tracts of wilderness that surrounds you.

You can also pop into Old River Inn for a more formal dining experience (get the seafood alfredo or bacon-wrapped halibut) or simply grab a quick sammie at the ever adorable, Java Flats – which is known for their delicious countryside sandwich (it’s filled with turkey, apples, and brie).

Afterward, recover from your beyond glorious food coma at Kodiak Compass Suites. Because during off-season, rooms at this 2.5-star hotel start at under $150 per night and include snazzy things like free breakfast (it’s limited though), free WIFI, gorgeous views, and warm, hospitable service.

I’m not gonna lie to you here. Homer is one of the best towns in Alaska that is a) not a hidden gem and that b) will be packing with fanny pack totin’ tourists.

So yeah, be prepared to do battle with the masses as you explore the Homer Spit, a narrow piece of land that reaches out into Kachemak Bay.

It’s also a not-so-low-key place filled with souvenir shops, restaurants selling fish and chips, and fishermen who swear that they can help you catch a 200-pound halibut.

It’s a place that some people love and that some people love to hate since it’s packed to the gills with tourists all throughout the summer.

Although, if you can get past the inherent touristy-ness of this place, you’ll enjoy the sweeping panoramas and a community of uber-radical locals who have had it with traditional society.

Yeah, they’re pretty awesome people who will make you feel like you’re about to become the lead character in a dystopian novel (just minus the death, madness, and mayhem).

You can also visit The Pratt Museum (a mix of native American art and mesmerizing interactive displays on local wildlife), The Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center (I like the reconstructed seabird colony), the Norman Lowell Studio (a cool art gallery but there are a ton of them here), and the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies (they run a neat  “Yurt on the Spit” tour at 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm daily that talks about all of the cool creatures that live at the dock).

Also, don’t forget to grab fresh bread/bagels from Two Sisters Bakery before chowing down on a wood-fired pizza from Fat Olives Restaurant.

Or, just chillax at the ever-casual, AJ’s Oldtown Steakhouse and Tavern, which serves some of the best steaks and freshest seafood in town.

Finally, enjoy a fantastic night in one of the well-appointed and reasonably priced (under $100 per night in the off-season) rooms at the Pioneer Inn Downtown.

It’s not an incredibly luxurious place to stay but it’s a comfortable, family-run spot where the owners are friendly and only too happy to help you with all of your travel needs.

It’s also a short, 9-minute walk from the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, and has rooms that feature wood paneling, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and minifridges.

Charming AF is probably the best way to describe Seward, which is easily one of the best towns in Alaska.

It’s tucked away along the edge of Resurrection Bay, is home to a ton of super cute stilted houses (see above), and features sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Also, because it’s a historic railroad town, it’s easily accessible via car, boat, and train from many other places in Alaska – making it an ideal stop addition to any Alaska itinerary you may be planning.

There’s also a ton to do here since you can book an awesome 6-hour wildlife cruise to nearby Kenai Fjords National Park, go sea kayaking, do a bit of whale-watching, or go for an epic hike to the Harding Ice Field.

Although, if you want to stay a bit closer to home then you’ll adore this vibrant town, which is divided into two distinct districts that are overflowing with fantastic restaurants and great nightlife – the slightly more touristy harbor area and the historic downtown area.

So, check out the Alaska Sealife Center (aka a local aquarium), enjoy the small Seward Community Library and Museum (it’s super quirky and has a great exhibit with awesome artifacts from the Iditarod), explore Small Boat Harbor (tons of boat-related tours depart from here), and see the Benny Benson Memorial (he was the 13-year-old boy who designed the state flag).

You can also eat all the feels at The Cookery (easily one of the best restaurants in Alaska) by devouring a giant order of fried chicken, or fish of the day, at this new age, modern American restaurant with impeccable service and beyond delicious food.

And once you’ve eaten until you can eat no more, spend a quiet evening at the aptly named, Hotel Seward. It’s located a mere 5 miles away from Kenai Fjords National Park and is a historic building that dates all the way back to 1905.

Rooms here are also traditionally elegant, well priced at around $100 per night, and come with modern amenities like free wifi and flat-screen TVs.

Heck, there’s even a casual, Victorian-style seafood restaurant onsite that serves classic American food that everyone will love.

5. Girdwood

The cool thing about Girdwood is that it’s only about 37 miles away from Anchorage.

Therefore, you could easily hop on the Alyeska Highway, take it to mile 90, and then hop on the Seaward Highway, eventually exiting at Girdwood after about a 45-minute drive.

Upon arrival, take in all that this tiny town has to offer, including giant mountains, expansive glaciers, and a laid-back vibe that may leave you feeling like you want to spend the night at the next-level swank, Alyeska Resort.

You could also go hiking, take a ride on the Alyeska Resort tram up to the ski resort (they have a nice ride and dine option that includes a tram ticket and a meal at the Bore Tide Deli for $39), explore historic Crow Creek Mine (learn how to pan for gold or camp here overnight),  or admire some local art at Girdwood Center for Visual Arts.

Whatever you do though, make time to eat at Spoonline Bistro (The Double Musky Inn is also great and serves a nice Filet Combo with steak, prawns, and a baked potato).

It’s an awesome local restaurant with a rotating menu of international cuisine that is super delish (the Thai-style prawns were exceptional).

And if you don’t want to spend the night at the swank Alyeska Resort (rooms are $200+ per night but awesome), you can always stay at the Highland Glen Lodge Bed and Breakfast.

It’s a nice, 4-star hotel in the area with friendly staff and rooms that start at $144 per night, including a full English breakfast! Because you know me, I’m all about the free food. Nom, nom, nom.

Pro Tip: If you happen to be in Alaska for the first weekend in July, then check out the Girdwood Forest Fair! It features a ton of local art, has an outdoor beer garden that overlooks a glacial stream, and includes live musical performances in a gorgeous forest setting.

6. Talkeetna

If you’re looking to explore the iconic, Denali State Park then Talkeetna is one of the best towns in Alaska for you!

Meaning “riverside food cache” in English,  Talkeetna is a mecca of sorts for mountain climbers, tourists, and crunchy Alaskans who want to get out there and enjoy all that nearby Denali has to offer.

FYI, if you’re lazy like me then you can always get sweet aerial views of Denali during this epic, 1.5-hour flight experience.

Not only will you get an awesome window seat, but you’ll be able to admire natural wonders like Tokositna Glacier, Moose’s Tooth/Broken Tooth peaks, Ruth Glacier, the Great Gorge, and more!

So, expect to find a ton of gift shops, climbing outfitters, laid-back restaurants, and historic saloons in this funky little mountain town.

However, other than exploring nearby Denali, you can also check out Talkeetna Riverside Park, embrace the macabre at Talkeetna Cemetery, visit the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum, and have a drink at the historic Fairview Inn.

It’s actually a really neat place that was first built in 1923 to cater to travelers who were going from Seward to Fairbanks via the Alaska Railroad.

Although, if drinking is not your thing, you could always stop for a bit of grub at Talkeetna Spinach Bread (get the spinach bread or the Indian Dal) or have a more formal meal at the Denali Brewpub, which serves epic fish and chips and cauliflower dip.

Finally, spend the night in the heart of town at the Talkeetna Inn. It’s a relaxed, affordable hotel (around $150 per night) with unassuming, clean rooms that include all the comforts of home.

The owners are also super friendly, have a ton of expert knowledge to help you plan your trip, and have made a ton of improvements to the hotel, making this an exceptional place to stay in the area.

Random Fact of the Day: This town is so wild and crazy that in 1997, they elected a cat named Stubbs as the local mayor. Yup, crazy but 110% true.

Not to be confused with the man, the myth, the coffee…Juan Valdez, Valdez is one of the best towns in Alaska that was first founded by prospectors looking for gold way back in ye olde 1897.

Since then though, the tiny town of Valdez hasn’t had an easy time of it. Because not only did the second strongest earthquake in recorded history decimate the area in 1964 but the Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989 systematically annihilated the area’s entire natural ecosystem.

Luckily for you though, nothing keeps Valdez down for long. As a result, it was reconstructed into this uber-chill, modern town that reminds me a bit of Bend, Oregon.

So, if your idea of a hopping good time is going fishing in beyond frigid waters or heli-skiing it up in the surrounding mountains, then definitely add Valdez to your Alaska bucket list.

Although, if you’re not feeling quite that adventurous, you could always:

• Take a day trip to Columbia Glacier
• Learn about this town’s tragic past at the Valdez Museum
• Pay your respects to the area’s earthquake victims in Old Valdez (remnants from where the town stood before the earthquake)
• Stroll along the boardwalk at Small Boat Harbor
• Visit the Maxine and Jesse Whitney Museum (a cool place with tons of native Alaska art and artifacts)
• Marvel at the Trail of the Whispering Giants (a 25-foot tall sculpture of an Alaska Native near Prince William Sound College)
• Enjoy some pancakes (or fries and the Hawaiian Burger) at the Old Town Diner or order a giant pizza with a side of drizzle sticks at The Stampmill

Afterward, spend a night or two in the House on the Rock B & B . It’s easily the best place to stay in town and has four Alaska-inspired rooms that come with cable TV, wifi, and a comfy queen bed.

And while it’s not the cheapest place to stay, you will enjoy a delicious, complimentary continental breakfast as we all as access to an awesome massage chair in the living room.

Looking for one of the best towns in Alaska that has totally sold itself out to the tourism industry?

If so then say hello to your new best friend, Cordova – a place that’s authentically Alaskan since it’s detached from major road networks and isn’t exactly a cruise ship hot spot (thank God).

As a result, Cordova is this quirky little fishing village that is surrounded by the Chuguch Mountains and the Copper River Delta on the other.

However, if you want to visit, you can really only fly or hop aboard a ferry.

Once here though, feel free to embrace the gritty weirdness of a place that is known for dingy bars, a working-class harbor, a vast network of hiking trails, ample bird watching areas, and a festival honoring ice worms (wtf?).

Other area highlights include:

• Small-boat Harbor – You’ll be able to see real salmon fishermen at work here and can visit the Cordova Fishermen’s Memorial)
• The Cordova Museum – It’s inside the Cordova Center and has a ton of local artwork and info about the area’s history
• Salmon Canneries  – Tour a local salmon cannery tour or stand in awe as Northern Fish Alaska packs and ships whatever you catch back home for you.
• Ilanka Cultural Center – It’s small but there are some cool totem poles here and other Alaska native art
• Baja Taco – Cute interior and great fish tacos/milkshakes
• Harborside Pizza – Great wood-fired pizza and beer and giant portions (Powder House is another good place to stop for burgers and fries)

Pro Tip: There aren’t a ton of places to stay here but you can always try The Reluctant Fisherman Inn . It’s right in the center of town and rooms here are comfortable with great harbor views, free breakfast, and awesome service.

Best Towns in Alaska in the South

9. wrangell.

With a rough exterior that is a bit off-putting to many, Wrangell is one of the best towns in Alaska from which you can visit the Ananbear-watching observatory and explore the Stikine River delta.

However, do give this place a chance since it’s a unique fishing village on the southeast coast that has been shaped by a unique mix of Russian and British residents.

There are also a ton of great hiking trails for you to check out, in addition to the Wrangell Museum (a great museum with an audio commentary that discusses the town’s fascinating past), Chief Shakes Island  (a local park with totems and a re-creation of a traditional Tlingit tribal house), Petroglyph Beach (see ancient rock carvings that date back thousands of years), and Totem Park.

You can also stop into Zaks Cafe for a burger and potato salad before spending the night at Stikine Inn & Restaurant . it sits right on the water, has friendly staff, features comfy rooms, and serves up a delicious crispy chicken chop that all the cool kids love.

10. Petersburg

Founded by a Norwegian immigrant by the name of Peter Buschmann in 1897, Petersburg is tucked away in Southeastern Alaska and is a quiet place with a distinctly Scandinavian vibe about it.

It’s also a fairly upscale town where you’ll find Norwegian flags aplenty as you explore the shallow, North Boat Harbor with more working fishing boats than pleasure cruise ships.

Also, throughout your stay in one of the best towns in Alaska, be sure to visit Sing Lee Alley (A row of historic buildings from the early 1900s that are built atop pilings, including the Sons of Norway Hall), Bojet Wikan Fishermen’s Memorial Park (there’s a Viking ship replica, a fishermen statue, and a deck made of pilings over Hammer Slough), and Clausen Memorial Museum (a local museum with artifacts that tell the tale of the local fishing industry).

Sure, there isn’t a ton to do here, but it’s a charming place to stay for a night or two, especially if you book a room at the Nordic House – a local, super clean, centrally located bed and breakfast with well-appointed rooms (think free wifi, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped communal kitchen) and exceptional service.

You can also savor some of the local culinary flavors of awesome at Inga’s Galley, which is a little seafood restaurant that serves up delicious sweet and sour chicken and shrimp and feta tacos.

Get off the well-trodden tourist trail and explore beautiful Stika – one of the best towns in Alaska where you’ll quickly remember that Alaska was actually part of the Russian empire (for a solid 135 years) long before it was a state in the good old US of A.

It’s one of those truly stunning places that overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the western shores of Baranof Island and that was actually the state capital back when the Russians were here and when Alaska was known as New Archangel.

Today though, this tiny town has all the best parts of Skagway, just minus all the tourists.

So, enjoy marvelous views of Mt. Edgecumbe off in the distance before you swan dive into remnants from this town’s Russian past at places like the Russian Bishop’s House (It’s the oldest, historic, Russian building here from1843 and you can visit a museum on the ground floor and fully restored rooms on the second floor), St. Micheal’s Cathedral (a gorgeous, Russian orthodox church from the 1840s with a well-adorned interior), and Castle Hill (this where Russia signed Alaska over to the US and some Russian cannons still remain at this lookout point).

Also, leave time to visit the Stka National Historical Park (walk past 18 totems on the Totem Trail and see an authentic, Tlingit fort), explore the Sheldon Jackson Museum (a small amalgamation of indigenous artifacts housed in a concrete building from 1895), see the recovering birds at the Alaska Raptor Center (it’s a 17-acre animal hospital of sorts for birds of prey), and see all the marine life at the Sitka Science Center (it houses five aquariums and several touch tanks for kids).

And if you’re hungry, stop for a bite to eat at Sitka Pel’Meni, a traditional Russian restaurant that is known for its delicious dumplings.

Otherwise, you could always pop into Beak Restaurant and get a giant order of mac and cheese with reindeer meat or cedar plank salmon (the weekend donuts are good too) before calling it a night at Eagle Bay Inn.

It’s not an uber-posh hotel but it’s one of the more affordable places in the area since it offers comfortable but modern, unassuming rooms. Plus, your stay comes with complimentary shuttle services from the ferry and continental breakfast, for a nominal fee.

Juneau is one of the best towns in Alaska because it’s not only the capital but it also has a ton of amazing things to offer visitors of every variety.

So, take some time to admire a crazy city where the roads go nowhere and where the river never freezes – an urban area that actually lies beneath an ice field that will never melt and that has epic hiking trails just 10-minutes away from the center of town.

If you want, you could even go on an epic canoe tour of Mendenhall Lake and see Mendenhall Glacier (book ASAP since a limited number of permits to this national park are available), try your hand at ziplining, go whale watching, or even do a bit of bear spotting from the interior of a local seaplane.

What? Is that not enough Juneau awesomeness for you?

Well, then you could swing by the Alaska State Museum, take a cable car up Mt. Roberts Tramway (FYI, it’s $35 for a 5-minute ride so you may want to hike up instead and take the free tram down), explore Last Chance Mining Museum (you can also hike on Perseverance Trail here), marvel at the Shrine of St. Therese (it’s a tranquil, natural stone Catholic church that is also a great salmon fishing spot), and stand in awe of Nugget Falls (it’s right near Mendenhall Glacier).

Afterward, try some authentic Alaskan King Crab at Tracy’s King Crab Shack (a casual, waterfront restaurant with great King Crab Legs and bisque) or stop for a delicious cheddar burger at the always lovely, Zerelda’s Bistro.

And if you’re looking for a nice place to stay, try the Juneau Hotel. Not only is it well-priced, but it’s centrally located, includes access to a free airport shuttle, has an onsite gym, and even features kitchens/washers and dryers for guests to use.

Rooms here are also fairly informal but include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, living rooms, and start at just under $120 per night.

13. Skagway

Brimming over with historic, gold rush town grandeur (thanks to all the vintage, false-fronted buildings in the area), Skagway is a premier destination for more than one million cruise ship passengers who walk along these iconic boardwalks every, single year.

A statistic that is slightly off-putting to someone like me one absolutely hates crowds.

However, if you can get past the almost amusement-park-like facade of one of the best towns in Alaska, you’ll discover a uniquely wonderful place that was first established after the 1898 gold rush, when more than 40,000 people flocked here in an attempt to, “strike it rich”.

Now, fast forward over a hundred years, and you’ll discover a wealth of actors in period piece clothing and story-telling park rangers wo are all trying to bring the amazing history of this magical place back to life.

So, if you plan to visit, be sure to check out:

• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park – There’s a visitor’s center with national park guides and a small museum that explains the Klondike-erific history of this epic town.
• Red Onion Saloon  – You can order the best pizza in town here and can even enjoy live music amidst an over-the-top, gold-rush era saloon that comes complete with mannequins who look like working girls from the late 1800s.
• Dyea – You’ll find the start of the famous Chilkoot Trail which will take you all the way to Lake Benett.
• Moore Homestead Museum – This homestead, complete with a little museum, explains the establishment of the town to visitors and discusses the life of the founder, Captain William Moore.
• Jewell Gardens – This is a quiet place to go if you want to see flower gardens and escape from the overwhelming hordes of tourists that inundate the area. There are also some glass blowing studios here where you can see live demonstrations.
• Stop by Skagway Fish Company for some Jumbo King Crab legs (or fish and chips) or Skagway Brewing Company for a Spruce Tip Ale, blackened chicken alfredo, spinach artichoke dip, and carrot cake (so good).
• Haines Alaska – I’t another great little town in Alaska that is only about an hour and a half away from Skagway by car.

And if you need an awesome place to stay, try At the White House. It’s an awesome little guest house in a quiet part of Skagway that is still within talking distance of all the area’s major attractions.

It’s also reasonably priced and has a down-home feel to it that makes it seem as though you’re staying with family – only better since the staff is super nice, the rooms are exceptionally clean, and there’s even a cookie jar with fresh cookies every single day.

14. Ketchikan

Way down there in Southern Alaska, just a hoot and holler away from British Columbia, is Ketchikan – a rainy little town that sits on picturesque, Revillagigedo Island.

On second thought though, Ketchikan really isn’t THAT little since it’s actually the fourth largest city in Alaska. It’s also known for its salmon fishing industry and its rich Haida and Tlingit history.

Therefore, expect to find a ton of vibrant totem poles here – something that kind of makes up for the fact that this place is routinely inundated with one million tourists between May and September of every year.

However, if you can handle the tourists (or can manage to travel here in the off-season), then you’ll love the hodgepodge of colorful buildings on Creek Street and can even do an awesome day trip (via seaplane) to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Other fun things to do in one of the best towns in Alaska include:

• Totem Heritage Canter – Ancient totem poles (Translation? 100+ years old) have been brought into this center from long fogotten Tlingit and Haida communities. Once here, these stunning masterpieces are protected from deterioration and can be enjoyed iamidst beautiful, natural surroundings.
• Deer Mountain – Embark on a 2.5 mile, 3,000-foot ascent up Deer Mountain on one of the town’s most popular hiking trails. There are also various overlooks along the way where you can stop for epic panoramas.
• Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour – Hop aboard one of the boats featured in the show, Deadliest Catch, and go on a truly authentic crabbing trip in Alaska.
• Dolly’s House – A slightly over-the-top museum on Creek Street where you can see exactly what Brothel life was like during the time of the Gold Rush.
• Waterfront Promenade – Take a stroll along this brand new boardwalk and enjoy scenic views of Harbor View Park (park is a loose term since it’s a giant wooden deck) and Thomas Basin Harbor.
• Stop by Annabelle’s for an order of delicious fish and chips that is perfectly paired with a pint of local craft beer. Otherwise, head to Bar Harbor for some Dungeness Crab and delicious banana bread pudding (FYI, Arctic Bar has a nice selection of local beer too).

Finally, after you’ve sight-seed until you can sightsee no more, call it a night at the Inn at Creek Street. It’s definitely one of the more affordable hotels in the area and sits along the waterfront, in a historic, clapboard house from 1924.

Therefore, it’s an extremely well-located property with rustic feeling rooms that include wifi, cable, coffeemakers, and harbor views. Heck, you can even enjoy access to free shuttles and tours throughout your stay, and all for less than $120 per night.

Best Towns in Alaska in the Interior

15. north pole.

If you want to embrace the true spirit of Christmas all day, every day, then this one of the best towns in Alaska for you!

Because this tiny town just outside of Fairbanks (it’s a short 15-minute drive away) is absolutely overflowing with vibrant Christmas decorations that are always on display – even in the summer!

So, if you’re imagining candy cane striped street lamps, huge Santa statues, and a full on Santa Clause house that doubles as a Christmas store (with walls plastered with children’s letters to Santa), then you already know just how awesome the North Pole really is.

While you’re here, you can also shop for Christmas inspired souvenirs at Santa Claus House, check out the annual Ice Carving Contest here in December, stop by the North Pole Post Office (400,000 letters addressed to Santa arrive here every year), and inhale a delicious crepe (the pesto chicken and Nutella banana are both good) from the North Pole Creperie.

.And, added bonus? Many of the roads here have uber-Christmasy names like Kris Kringle Drive and Mistletoe Lane.

However, if you need a break from all this holiday-inspired mayhem, then visit the Chena Lake Recreation Area, which is home to several beaches, scenic nature trails, and a few different picnic areas.

Pro Tip : Not into crepes? Then mosey on over to Little Richard’s Famil Diner for some delicious cheeseburgers, Reubens, milkshakes, and all-day breakfast specials.

16. Fairbanks

What can I say? Fairbanks is probably one of the most iconic towns in Alaska and one of the most romantic getaways in the USA .

I mean, not only is it basically the only major city in the state’s vast interior, but it’s an amazing place to see the Northern Lights (like during this late-night, authentic, Alaskan dinner in a yurt with Northern Lights tour) – at least any time between late August and late April since Fairbanks sits along the Tanana River, and is just 200 miles south of the Arctic Circle.

Although truth be told, Aurora Borealis spotting isn’t the only thing you can you do in this vibrant little community.

Because while you’re in one of the best towns in Alaska, you can go for a dip in the Chena Hot Springs, join an ATV tour, visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North (You’ll learn all about the history of every region in the state and can see amazing artwork in the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery), go bird watching at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, and experience all that the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center has to offer.

No really, this is easily one of the best visitor centers I’ve ever been in since it hosts live cultural performances, has hands-on craft-making demonstrations, and features various exhibits on Alaskan history and native culture.

If you have the time, you can also take a day trip to Arctic Circle from Fairbanks (it’s about a three-hour drive but be very careful if you drive yourself) or just visit some of the musk ox, reindeer, and caribou that call the Large Animal Ranger Station home, during a 45-minute guided tour of the facility.

Other fun things to do in Fairbanks include:

• Running Reindeer Ranch – You can go on an hour-long walk through a Boreal Forest and marvel at the herd of reindeer that live here.
• Chena Riverwalk – Mosey on down this paved, 3.5 mile-long path that takes you along the Chena River.
• Alaskan Tails of the Trail –  Learn what it’s like to race sled dogs in the Iditarod and get a glimpse into the life of a pro-musher during this two-hour tour with Mary Shields (aka the first woman to ever complete the Iditarod).
• Try some authentic Moldovan food (like Borscht and split pea soup) at Soba or order a Shawarma Bowl from Aurora Mediterranean Restauran t.

And when you’re finally all tuckered out, spend the night at The Alaska Heritage House Bed and Breakfast. It’s a lovely, early 20th-century bungalow that is tucked away in a quiet, residential part of the city.

Rooms here are also well-priced (under $130 per night), contain beautiful antique furniture, and feature cable TV, wifi, coffeemakers, clawfoot tubs (if you’re lucky), and a sumptuous breakfast spread.

Additional Alaska Resources You’ll Love

• Alaska Packing List

A Map of the Best Towns in Alaska

There you have it, my Alaska-loving pals! Because that just about wraps up this wicked awesome post about all of the best towns in Alaska!

Tell me, what did you think did your favorite place make the list if not then let me know in the comments below because i definitely want to check it out, and if you found this post helpful, then definitely pin it now so that you can come back to it later .

Vickie Handy

Sunday 17th of April 2022

My husband & I flew into Anchorage in Sept. If 2021. We stayed approx. 10 days. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We had hoped to see whales while we were there, but unfortunately we didn't. Absolutely beautiful & breathtaking scenery though!

girlwiththepassport

Wednesday 20th of April 2022

Absolutely and so sorry you didn't see any whales! What a bummer.

Wednesday 13th of April 2022

I agree with your choices. Cordova and Valdez are under appreciated. Cordova has a migratory bird festival every May. The best thing about Homer is that it's a jumping off point for Seldovia, a 45 min ferry ride away. Al in Anchorage

Thursday 14th of April 2022

Thanks so much for reading. I'm so glad you found this post useful.

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15 Incredible & Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska is the largest state in the USA, a vast landmass in the northwest of the country that’s separated from the rest of the states by Canada, and icy waterways. 

Alaska is remote, it’s isolated and it’s utterly stunning. While the cities, such as Anchorage and Juneau, have a lot to offer visitors, the best places to visit in Alaska are found in the wilderness. 

You can hike through spectacular national parks in summer, fly over epic mountain peaks such as Denali and land on dramatic glaciers.

You can learn about the indigenous people of Alaska, or get seriously remote with a trip to the Aleutian Islands. 

There’s so much to do, and to inspire your adventure, here are the best places to visit in Alaska! 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

15 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Table of Contents

Juneau is the understated state capital, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This might be the state capital but it’s really just a small town, and having no road connections, it’s also one of the most isolated places in the USA. 

But Juneau has a lot to offer, including some excellent museums and cultural centers delving into both the indigenous and the European history of Alaska.

Like anywhere in the state though, the best sights are found in the outdoors. Visit the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier on the edge of the city, take boat tours through the Fjords in search of wildlife, whales, and dolphins, and ride the Aerial Tramway to the summit of Mount Roberts for the beat vistas in Juneau. 

Whale watching and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier are two of the most popular activities around Juneau.

Check them both off your list on this half-day combo tour that includes flexible departure times and round-trip transportation from Mt. Roberts Tramway.

2. Anchorage

It might not be the capital, but Anchorage is easily Alaska’s best-known city.  Anchorage is the largest city in the state and it’s much better connected than Juneau, the capital.

You can explore the city’s best museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars in Downtown, but save plenty of time to travel into the wilderness. 

From Anchorage, you’re a short flightseeing trip away from epic mountains and glaciers, while along the coast you can enjoy hiking and cycling trails, or take a boat along the Fjords. 

Anchorage is where the city meets the wilds, and there are few other places in the USA where you’ll find moose and bears casually strolling through the streets! 

Get to know Anchorage on this 3-hour guided tour that takes you around the city’s top sites , including the port, Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, and Bootleggers Cove.

Gain further insight into Alaska’s indigenous cultures with an upgrade to visit the renowned Alaska Native Heritage Center.

3. Fairbanks 

Fairbanks is one of the most remote places in the USA. The small city is found in the wild interior of the state, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Fairbanks is a long way from anywhere, but it’s the largest city away from the coast, and the second-largest city in Alaska after Anchorage. 

This is the hub for the region and if you’re looking to explore the real wilds of Alaska then Fairbanks makes the perfect base.

In winter, you can spot the Northern Lights from the city, or marvel at ice sculptures across the city.

In summer you can hike and search for wildlife, and all year round you can visit the excellent Fairbanks Museum of the North.

Get to know Alaska’s past and present on this 5.5-hour tour in Fairbanks led by an informative guide .

Enjoy the Museum of the North’s story of Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage, and admire the art installations at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center.

4. Denali National Park 

One of the best places to visit in Alaska is the legendary Denali National Park. 

Named for Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America , this is the most famous national Park in Alaska. 

While you might not be climbing the mountain, which rises to almost 7000 meters in height, you can enjoy hiking in summer and snow sports in winter. 

You can reach Denali in 5 hours by car from Anchorage, but the best way to travel here is to take the train or to join a flightseeing tour that flies over the park and around the mountain. You might even be able to land on a glacier. 

Let someone else take care of planning and driving on this Denali backcountry excursion .

A driver and guide take you sightseeing along the full 92.5 miles (150 kilometers) of the Denali National Park Road to the Backcountry Lodge.

After lunch there, choose between gold panning, a naturalist-guided hike, or a botany walk. For convenience, you’re picked up directly from major hotels near Denali.

5. Chugach State Park

Even closer to Anchorage, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. Chugach State Park quite literally begins where the boundaries of the city end. 

This beautiful state park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, and you’ll quickly spot the likes of bears and moose, classic Alaskan animals, in their natural habitat. 

Get out of the city and deeper into the Alaskan wilderness than is typical, on this great sightseeing tour .

This small-group tour takes you to Chugach National Forest, Beluga Point, Portage Glacier, and more to spot brown bears, wolves, bison, and belugas.

6. Lake Clark National Park 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Alaska is Lake Clark National Park . 

Located just 100 miles away from Anchorage it’s also incredibly accessible. Lake Clark is a huge, jaw-dropping lake that glistens in glorious shades of blue and turquoise in the sunshine. 

As well as lakes and rivers though, the national park is well known for its steaming volcanic peaks, and wildlife.

The waterways are home to huge populations of salmon, and the salmon attract plenty of bears in the spring and summer. 

7. Gates of the Arctic National Park  

Head to the far north of the state to explore one of the most remote, yet one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This is the place to travel to if you want to see the Arctic Circle because this national park is found entirely within the Arctic Circle.

In fact, this is the most northerly national park in the United States, and even getting here will be a challenge in itself. 

Make the long journey to the Gates of the Arctic National Park, and you’ll be able to explore this icy realm and delve deep into the local communities that have adapted to thrive in this cold part of the world. 

Discover the Alaskan wilderness on this 3 or 4-day guided trip from Fairbanks that includes overnight accommodation . Soak up spectacular scenery at the Arctic National Park, perhaps spotting wildlife like grizzlies and sheep.

Enjoy plenty of hikes, including one on the high plateau of Finger Mountain, check out an Alaskan oil field, and learn about the region’s gold-mining history and more.

8. Coldfoot and Wiseman 

Coldfoot and Wiseman are two unique villages found in the Arctic. These are two famous pit stops on the road north, home to just a few residents and a couple of bed and breakfasts and camping areas. 

They primarily supply and rest stops, but they are much more than this too.

Spend the night on your way north in a truly authentic Arctic community that’s often cut off from the world for many of the long winter months. 

9. Chena Hot Springs 

The Chena Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Alaska, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold. 

Take a trip to the Chena Hot Springs, just a quick 50-mile detour from Fairbanks, and you’ll be able to soak up the natural mineral water, warm up in the arctic climate and enjoy some beautiful surroundings. 

You can stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort if you’re looking for a slice of luxury in the wilderness. 

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs .

Enjoy a scenic 60-mile (95-km) drive from your hotel to Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in the large outdoor pool of this legendary resort.

Tour how Chena Hot Springs makes use of geothermal energy to power the resort, and check out the sculptures in the Aurora Ice Museum.

10. Glacier Bay National Park 

Close to the city of Juneau, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Glacier Bay National Park , as the name would suggest, is home to some of Alaska’s most impressive glacial landscapes.

Many of the glaciers drop straight into the bay itself, and the best way to see them is to take a boat ride or to kayak in the shadow of these icy behemoths. 

11. Kenai Fjords

Kenai Fjords are one of the best places to visit in Alaska. This beautiful, protected national park is located off the Kenai Peninsula where you can find the largest icefield in the USA. 

The best way to explore the waterways and glaciers, if of course by taking a boat cruise. 

Watch the Alaskan wilderness awaken on this 6-hour morning cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward . Cruise past alpine and tidewater glaciers among the fjords and take in a bounty of wildlife.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge for great views of seabird rookeries.

12. Katmai National Park

Alaska is home to a huge number of national parks, but one not to miss will always be the Katmai National Park. 

The huge national park is centered around an enormous volcano, and this is the best place in the country to see large numbers of brown bears in the wild. 

13. Skagway 

If you’re looking for a destination that’s not just about the landscapes and wildlife then take a trip to the town of Skagway. 

Located along the Inside Passage, Skagway was an important hub during the Klondike Gold Rush era and much of the town has been preserved into a historic relic from these boom days. 

You can visit Klondike inspired museums and heritage buildings and even ride the old gold rush era steam engines along the railroad. 

This is not a run-of-the-mill sled excursion, it packs in several fun activities and concludes with a treat that’s hard not to love.

Follow your guide on a short tour of downtown Skagway , hop on a Unimog for a ride up a mountain, and then take a sled ride with Alaskan huskies through Tongass National Park.

Afterward, get a chance to spend time with husky puppies.

14. Aleutian Islands

The Aleutian Islands are one of the best places to visit in Alaska, but getting there isn’t exactly easy. 

These distant islands spread from the mainland, west into the Bering Sea, and they are comprised of a large number of volcanic Islands and atolls, only a few of which are inhabited.

The islands have a unique history and were, in fact, the scene of a fierce battle between invading Japanese forces and defending Allied troops.

A few of the islands were occupied, making this the only part of the USA to be occupied during World War II by the Japanese. 

Today you can not only explore unknown battlefields, but you can marvel at the isolation and Remote beauty of the volcanoes and peaks on these dramatic Alaskan islands. 

15. Inside Passage 

The Inside Passage is one of the most spectacular travel routes in North America and one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

The Inside Passage is the route that’s often taken by cruise ships , and a route that was taken by pioneering colonists and explorers on their way north in the 19th century. 

The sheltered and relatively calm Inside Passage takes ships along the Canadian coastline and into Alaska, reaching Juneau.

Along the way the views and the scenery are mesmerizing, and this really is the best way to arrive in the state! 

More on Alaska:

• Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown
• 13 UNREAL Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
• 15 Cannot Miss Things to do in Anchorage
• 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska
• 13 Epic Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska (Besides Northern Lights)
• 5 Best Alaska Road Trip Routes (Ultimate Planning Guide!)
• Alaska National Parks: The Fabulous 8
• Is Spring the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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25+ of the Best Places to Visit in Alaska (2024)

Awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Charming coastal towns. Stunning National parks.

These are 25 of the best places to visit in Alaska, ranging from the biggest cities to the most gorgeous nature preserves and tiny towns in one of the five Alaskan region that have a story to tell.

As the largest state in the US and one of the most sparsely populated, planning the best places to go in Alaska can feel daunting.

It’s not so easy to just hop from place to place, and sometimes you need a combination of plane and snowmobile to get there!

And, of course, you should make sure you are aware of the varying sunlight hours in Alaska, with the winter months having almost none in some areas and the summer months having a seriously impressive amount (up to 24 hours in some places on some days!)

Here are the best places to visit in Alaska, from Fairbanks to Sitka to Denali to the Yukon Delta.

What to Pack for Alaska

If you’re coming to Alaska in the summer, then you’ll be good with layers (shorts and shirts during the day, longer layers for in the evening), but if you’re coming in the winter, you need to make sure you’re prepped for a truly Alaska winter wardrobe (read: ALLLLL kinds of bundled up because you’re about to be freezing!)

• Sturdy pair of winter boots – your feet are one of the most important places to keep dry and warm in a Duluth winter, and they’re going to be exposed to a lot between the salt, the slush, and the bitter cold. Make sure to invest in a quality pair of winter boots like these for women and these for men.
• Warm beanie – beanies are all the rage in Alaska when the cold comes, and you can get them in so many different colors. Get a fun pattern like this one , or go plain with ones like these .
• Warm socks – did you know that you also need to think about your socks? Yeah, leave your short summer ones at home. Invest in a pair of warm socks like these to give you an extra layer of protection.
• Wool or fleece leggings – for the girls who are wanting to keep extra warm underneath your jeans or are going bare-legged in your dress for a night out on the town, invest in fleece leggings like these to keep your legs extra warm.
• Gloves with touchscreen technology – there’s nothing worse than having to constantly take your gloves off to text or dial phone numbers or look up directions, so invest in a warm pair of gloves with touchscreen technology like these .
• Warm coat – you want a super warm, down coat or sturdy coat through a brand like North Face to get you through the Alaska winters. Your thin hoodie isn’t going to cut it!
• Turtleneck – turtlenecks are totally in fashion in a Alaska winter, especially layered underneath all of your other clothes. The key is to bundle up from bottom to top, so don’t leave your neck out and try a fashionable turtleneck like this.
• Thick scarf – no matter who you are or what kind of fashion you’re into, you’re sure to find a thick scarf that makes sense for your wardrobe, and this is a fantastic way to add another layer of warmth and act as a shield against the biting winds.

1. Anchorage

The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is one of Alaska’s main hubs for culture, outdoor adventure, and wildlife viewing.

Check out this amazing Anchorage tour to see the city and beyond, or check out my guide to the best Anchorage tours if you want more options.

Spend your day at the Alaska Zoo , where you can check out both native and Alaskan animals, or go walking in Kincaid Park for some fresh air and great water views.

You can also go to the Alaska Native Heritage Center for an introduction to indigenous life and appreciate native dwellings.

Flight gurus will fall in love with the Alaska Aviation Museum , filled with replicas of historic planes and a flight simulator so you can take to the skies in your own way.

There are also breweries, coffee shops, restaurants, and stores that you would expect from city life like Costco, Target, and Walmart, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything!

Anchorage is home to the University of Alaska Anchorage, as well as Alaska Pacific University, and has a sizeable student population.

Many people use Anchorage as a base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, including Chugah State Park, the Knik River, and more.

How to Get There: Fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, or drive.

Where to Stay: The Lakefront Anchorage ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

2. Fairbanks

Located in the Interior of Alaska, Fairbanks is known for its incredible aurora borealis viewing opportunities, and many people come here to “chase the aurora.”

The second most populated city in Alaska, Fairbanks has a thriving cultural scene that includes the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor’s Center , as well as the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum .

If you need to stretch your legs, Pioneer Park offers some space to run around, and sports fans will find hockey games at the nearby Carlson Center.

Like Anchorage, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and stores so you’re very much in a thriving area with plenty of resources in case you don’t want to cook or need to go buy some warmer clothes!

From Fairbanks, visitors go in search of the Alaskan wilderness by following the Tanana River or checking out the Chena River State Recreation Area.

If you’ve come for aurora season specifically, you can go on a guided tour of the Northern Lights from Fairbanks that helps you find the best places to see the lights, or you can do it yourself by bookmarking places like Creamer’s Field, a bird sanctuary with often excellent views, as well as pullovers on the Steese Highway or the Murphy Dome.

How to Get There: Fly into Fairbanks International Airport, or drive.

Where to Stay: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

Known as one of the most wild places in Alaska where you can still get modern amenities, Nome is a mining town that was incredibly popular back in the days of the Gold Rush.

Today, the population is estimated at just under 4,000 and locals enjoy its beautiful location on the Bering Sea.

If you visit in the summer, you can take part in activities like bird-watching, gold panning, and self-guided walking tours that take you past Nome’s historic buildings.

In the winter, chase the Northern Lights, take part in cross-country skiing, or visit in March to see the end of the famous Iditarod race that ends in Nome.

While you’re out and about on the trails, it isn’t unusual to see a reindeer or a moose!

Nome also offers great shopping if you’re looking for Native art.

History buffs will love the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum , which contains lots of information on the Gold Rush history as well as the history of indigenous people.

And of course, you can take your pictures with the world’s largest gold pan, because why not?

How to Get There: Nome is not connected to the Alaska Highway System, which means that the only easy way for visitors to arrive is by plane into Nome Airport via Alaska airlines.

Where to Stay: Pike Suite ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

Located in the south of Alaska, south of Anchorage, Seward is a popular tourist destination as it’s on the port list for many cruise lines.

It also has great road links to Anchorage and awesome dog sledding tours like this one .

For this reason, the summer season is much more active in Seward, but there are plenty of things to do year round.

Located on Resurrection Bay, Seward is a fantastic place to view marine wildlife.

From humpback whales to sea otters to harbor seals, there are so many gorgeous creatures to spot.

If you want to get active, try renting a bike or doing a dog sledding tour.

Fishing lovers will enjoy guided freshwater or saltwater trips by experienced skippers.

Staying on land?

The Alaska Sealife Aquarium is a public aquarium, perfect for families, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a fascinating culture center.

You’ll also find art galleries, coffee shops, family-owned restaurants and live music venues.

Don’t forget to check out Seward’s murals, done by local artists all over Seward to give it a colorful and friendly vibe.

How to Get There: Most visitors either come by cruise line, fly into Ted Stevens Airport in Anchorage and then drive down (2 to 4 hours depending on traffic), or you can take a train during the summer months.

Where to Stay: Summit View Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

5. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

When you consider a visit to the Gates of the Arctic National Park , you should know that this is truly untouched wilderness.

There are no roads, no trails, no service stations – nothing but millions of acres of preserved and unfiltered Alaskan land, shaped only by Mother Earth.

Only experienced backcountry survivalists should visit on their own. If that isn’t you, don’t worry.

There are plenty of guided tours that offer the chance to backpack, canoe, and hike your way through this national park with experienced guides who can show you the ropes when it comes to outdoor living.

You might spot a caribou, a grizzly bear, or other wildlife who call this area home, and you’ll definitely be able to enjoy the absolutely stunning views that include mountains, lakes, and forest.

The park is largely visited in the warmer months, as the freezing temperatures in the winter make it unhabitable for most.

The closest major area is Fairbanks, where many tours start, and from there you may hop on a smaller plane to one of the small settlements closer to the park.

This is Alaska the way it was intended to be explored. Leave no trace, and take nothing but photos.

How to Get There: Head to Fairbanks and take a guided tour, like these by Arctic Wild .

6. Denali National Park

Perhaps the most famous National Park in Alaska, Denali is visited by over 400,000 visitors each year.

There is one road through the park, with most of it being untouched and ready for exploration.

Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, hares, and other Alaskan wildlife.

This is one of the best tours of Denali .

There are a few popular ways to see Denali, one of which is a bus tour through the park, which are usually narrated and includes stops for lunch.

If you want to get up close to Denali, the actual mountain and summit of the park, there are airplane tours to give you a close-up even if you’re not a mountaineer.

Even in the winter months, while some of the road is closed to visitors, you can visit the first few miles and explore the area with snowshoeing or telemark skiing.

The park recommends two full days of exploration, which gives you time to take guided tours, go hiking and visit the visitor center.

How to Get There: Most visitors in the summer come by car, via the Alaska Railroad, or via a sightseeing bus tour from Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Where to Stay: Denali Park Hotel ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

While Juneau is Alaska’s capital, many are surprised to find that it’s not connected to the rest of Alaska by road (check out more Alaska fun facts like this in our epic list!).

The surrounding terrain is too rugged, which means that anyone or anything coming to or from Juneau goes by plane if you’re coming from the mainland.

It’s also a huge stop for cruise ships in the summer, providing a thriving summer economy.

Check out the Mendenhall Glacier , one of the most beautiful glacier experiences in the world which you can get close to by foot, kayak, or plane.

There’s also fantastic orca whale watching, as well as salmon fishing and a trip to Admiralty Island to see the bears and nesting bald eagles.

And of course, don’t miss the downtown streets of Juneau, where you’ll find the Alaska State Capitol, plenty of coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and historic shops on Franklin Street.

How to Get There: Fly into Juneau International Airport.

Where to Stay: Four Points by Sheraton ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

On the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage is Sitka , a place many rom-com fans may have heard of as it was where the characters played by Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock went to visit his parents!

For residents, though, Sitka is simply a place of natural wonder and beauty, essentially an island community because it can only be visited by land or sea.

In Sitka, you can do everything from fly fishing to ATV riding to traditional dancing to hiking to cultural visitors to the St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral .

Spend a day at Baranof Castle , or enjoy some golfing or yoga surrounded by stunning views.

In the summer months, Sitka is visited by cruise ships, while in the winter, it’s filled with people searching for the northern lights or going snowshoeing or backcountry skiing.

Sitka doesn’t experience the same intense light cycles as in Northern Alaska, which means the winter days aren’t quite as short and the summer days aren’t quite as long.

How to Get There: Take a cruise or fly into Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport.

Where to Stay: Sitka Hotel ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

9. Wrangell St-Elias National Park and Preserve

It’s probably no surprise that you can visit the largest national park in all of the United States when you visit Alaska.

With two roads leading into the park, multiple visitor’s center, and plenty of natural experiences, this is one of the best places to visit in Alaska if you want to check out volcanoes, glaciers, as well as wildlife spot to see if you can sneak a peek at the bison, Dall sheep, black and brown bears and mountain goats.

You can also take part in hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, and so much more.

Plan to visit during the summer months, when the park is accessible.

While the roads are open year-round, they are not maintained in the winter months and visitors from around the world are welcomed from around May to September.

How to Get There: Drive from nearby Chitina or take a guided tour.

Where to Stay: Kennicott Glacier Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

10. North Pole

Yes, you can visit the North Pole ..in Alaska!

Known for its year-round Christmas decorations, this small town near Fairbanks has adorable street names like Mistletoe Lane and plenty of candy cane striped street lights.

Visit Santa Claus House, a Santa Claus themed gift shop, as well as nearby shops Christmas in Ice and a reindeer experience at Antler Academy!

North Pole has an elementary school, a middle school, and a high school, as well as a library.

How to Get There: Drive from Fairbanks

Where to Stay: Hotel North Pole ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

11. Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

One of the most remote national parks, Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is the place to go in Alaska for anyone who wants to journey to the end of the Earth.

Quite literally, too, as this used to (10,000+ years ago) be part of the land bridge that connected Asia to America!

It’s located on the Seward Peninsula in Northwest Alaska and here you’ll find the opportunity to get lost (not for real) in a world of caribou, forest, hot springs, and more.

Visitors to this national park love the Serpentine Hot Springs, which are hot springs that you can use, like a natural hot tub!

There’s also plenty of wildlife spotting.

There are no roads in the park, so access is by small plane or snowmobile.

How to Get There: Take a tour with Arctic Wild

Where to Stay: Stay in Kotzebue overnight before your tour.

12. Alaska Highway

At over 1300 miles across Alaska, the Alaska Highway is one of the best scenic drives in the entire world.

You could plan a whole trip just cruising this highway and stopping off at points along the way, as it goes all the way from near Fairbanks to British Columbia, Canada.

Established in World War II, millions of visitors have rented a car and taken off on an adventure over the years and it’s definitely something to add to your bucketlist.

Because of the remoteness of Alaska, you do want to make sure that you’re prepared for the weather, know where your next stop is, and aren’t traveling without proper equipment through the more dangerous winter months.

13. College

Unsurprisingly, “ College, Alaska ” is just outside of downtown Fairbanks and is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

With surrounding trails, public modern art on campus, and an ice skating rink, it’s worth stopping by to have a look.

Many people are fascinated by the campuses of universities across the country, so don’t miss the chance to see an Alaskan one on your visit to Fairbanks!

How to Get There: Drive or fly into the Fairbanks International Airport.

Where to Stay: Downtown Fairbanks

14. Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve

It’s time to embrace the beauty of the Yukon and Charley rivers at this Alaska national park.

One of the most popular activities here are, of course, floating down the Yukon river or Charley river.

You can experience canoeing, whitewater rafting, hiking, wildlife watching, and plenty of outdoor adventure.

With public cabins that can be used for free along the river banks (first-come, first served), many like to float down the river and stop off each night in a cabin.

Of course, remember that the climate in Alaska means that May through September are the ideal months for experiencing this part of the state, and always remember to come prepared with all of the gear recommended by Alaska’s National Park service, including bearproof belongings!

How to Get There: Drive to one of the towns along the river, like Circle or Beaver.

Where to Stay: Beaver Lodge Tour and B&B.

15. Chugach National Forest

Just one hour from Anchorage, the Chugach National Forest is a treasure trove of wetlands, rain forest, coastal woods and more.

Unlike some of the more remote national parks and forest in Alaska, Chugach is easily accessible without any backcountry knowledge, and has two visitor centers, 500 miles of maintained trails, cabins, and campgrounds.

You can do everything from hiking to guided glacier walking to fishing to kayaking.

You won’t see it all, of course, as the entire area is larger than the state of New Hampshire!

First time visitors are recommended to spend about 2 days exploring the forest to get a taste for the natural wonder and beauty.

How to Get There: Drive from Anchorage (about 1 hour).

Where to Stay: The Spencer Glacier Public Use Cabin .

16. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Most visitors visit Glacier Bay National Park via cruise ships, as this is the easiest way to see the beauty of this magical place.

Not only is it a preserved area and hub for scientific research on our planet, but the actual beauty of the sparkling glaciers, whales jumping in the water, and endless blue is out of this world.

While the cruise ships do not dock in Glacier Bay, they spend time sailing through it and getting as close as possible without spoiling the environment.

You’ll hear the cracking and shifting of the glaciers, try and spot otters on the shore, and so much more.

You can also go on a backcountry sea kayaking experience.

For the native people of the area, the Tlingit, stories about Glacier Bay are part of their history and culture, and it’s not hard to see why.

How to Get There: Taking a cruise that sails through here is the easiest way.

17. Iditarod

Today, a ghost town, Iditarod is in fact the town that shares a name with the Iditarod dog race.

Back in the day, during the gold boom, it was a thriving community with shops, a few hotels, and a liveliness to it.

Now, it is run down buildings frozen in time, but every year it is a stop used as a checkpoint for the Iditarod race!

You can still see some of the historic site, no longer in use, and it’s a fascinating piece of Alaskan history that still has a connection to the race.

18. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

About 100 miles southwest of Anchorage is Lake Clark National Park , a rugged and stunning place to go in Alaska that welcomes visitors to explore the lake and surrounding vistas.

One of the most notable things you’ll find here is lots and lots of bears!

This is their natural habitat, and you may see them eating, foraging, pawing the water, and more.

The lake itself is milky blue, sparkling in the sun in the summer, and the backcountry hiking is some of the best in Alaska.

Salmon return from the sea to Lake Clark to spawn every year, and there are some magnificent views of the teeming salmon during the season.

How to Get There: You have to arrive by seaplane or boat, usually on a guided tour as there are no roads to the park.

Where to Stay: Check out Alaska’s Back Country Inn in Port Alsworth, the most built up area in the park.

19. Wasilla

The sixth-largest city in Alaska, Wasilla has big city amenities like grocery stores, clothing stores, and bars and restaurants, but it is still very much a small town feel.

Experience the city where the Iditarod is headquartered, spend some time at the Wasilla Museum & Visitor Center, enjoy the vintage planes and trains at the Museum of Alaska Transportation, or explore the city parks like Lake Lucile Park with gorgeous views of the mountains beyond.

Many people use Wasilla as a gateway to further adventures in Alaska’s wilderness, including lakes and rivers.

If you’re really into the history of the Iditarod, you can actually visit the Headquarters and see the museum of this famous and race and how it all got started.

If you want to experience the local flavor (literally), try out the family-owned restaurants and coffee shops and dig into the cultural scene of the city’s residents.

How to Get There: Fly into Wasilla Airport or drive

Where to Stay: Alaska’s Lake Lucille Bed and Breakfast ( Check here to see rooms and prices ).

20. Yukon Delta

The Yukon Delta is one of the largest river deltas in the world, and unlike other parts of Alaska with towering mountains, it is mostly comprised of tundra and flat stretches intermixed with streams, rivers, and ponds.

Here, you’ll find water birds, plenty of brown and black bears, and caribou, moose, and wolves.

There’s not just one place to visit here, as the expansive nature of the delta means that people are scattered everywhere.

And that’s right, it’s important to mention that this is an inhabited delta!

About 85% of the 85,000 residents are native Alaskan people, and there are about 35 villages.

Come here to go rafting, take wildlife photos, hiking, or kayaking.

And if you’re wondering where the most populated area is, it’s in Bethel, which has gift shops, a movie theater, banks, and other amenities that you might want to be around and use as a base for exploration.

How to Get There: Fly into Bethel airport

Where to Stay: Long House Hotel

21. Katmai National Park and Preserve

Did you know that Alaska has volcanoes?

One of them is known as Novarupta and erupted in 1912, creating the landscape that is now known as Katmai National Park.

It’s also one of the most inhabited areas of the world by…brown bears!

Over 2,000 of them live here, and there are dedicated bear watching tours you can go on that depart from neighboring towns and cities.

Katmai itself isn’t accessible by road, and visitors need to come by boat or float plane.

One of the most popular places to watch bears here is known as Brooks camp, where you can see the bears pawing at the salmon they’re planning on eating as a snack.

A viewing platform lets you get an up close, safe, view of the activities.

There are over 4 million acres in the park, and you can camp in the backcountry, kayak in the rivers, or hike through the more remote areas on a guided ranger tour.

How to Get There: Floatplane or boat

22. Meadow Lakes

Meadow Lakes has made the list if you’re looking for somewhere to go in Alaska to give you an idea of what local life is like.

About an hour drive from Anchorage, this is a town of about 7,000 that is surrounded by dirt roads, gorgeous tree-lined pathways, and of course the fresh Alaskan air.

The main store in town, Three Bears Alaska, sells food and drinks, and there are a few restaurants and other shopping options around, as well as a Baptist Church.

You won’t necessarily want to stay in Meadow Lakes, but having a meal here to explore and meet some local residents is a great idea if you’re near Wasilla.

23. Kobuk Valley National Park

From thousands of caribou to unexpected sand dunes, Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the best wild national parks for visitors to explore who just want to get away from it all.

The sand dunes were a product of the Ice Age, and a natural process that meant melting glaciers ground the rocks around them into sand.

They are stunning and towering, making it look more like an alien landscape than something in the Arctic.

Then you’ve got the mass caribou migration, a true sight to behold twice a year.

The rest of the time, you can spot the caribou footprints left from their stampedes.

In the winter, come to chase the Northern Lights to take advantage of the location in the Arctic circle. In the summer, hiking and camping are popular options.

Keep in mind that that is truly the backcountry.

There are no roads that lead into the national park, and it must be accessed by small planes from surrounding areas.

You should be versed in outdoor survival techniques and really be ready to become one with nature, respecting what you find and leaving nothing behind.

How to Get There: Plane from Bettles or Kotzebue.

24. Kodiak Island

Sharing a name with the bear of the same name, Kodiak Island is most definitely a picture-perfect adventure.

Here, you’ll find a small town fishing community that has some gorgeous scenery, a huge bear population in the wildlife preserves, amazing fishing opportunities and the chance to really explore what is known as the “Emerald Isle.”

Unlike some other northern Alaskan places, the weather here is much more mild in both the winter and summer, and summers are not overcrowded with tourists.

You’ve got all of the amenities you need including grocery stores, but unparalleled access to nature on your doorstep.

The main village is Kodiak itself, but there are a couple of others dotted around the island that are inhabited.

How to get here: By boat or plane from the Alaskan mainland

Where to Stay: Kodiak Russian River Lodge ( check here for prices and rooms ).

25. Steese National Conservation Area

Just north of Fairbanks, about a half day drive, is the Steese National Conservation Area .

The area itself has a small town nearby, Circle, but is mostly remote and for visitors who are self-sufficient and want to explore without running into other people.

Hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, and picking berries are all allowed within the area, and the northern location means that especially in the summer, visitors can experience the thrill of the “midnight sun” which means daylight hours go on, and on, and on.

The Pinnell Mountain Trail is a primitive trail that has been maintained, offering stunning views of the white Mountains and the Alaska Range.

This trail is in the north of the conservation area, which is more suitable to hikers and backpackers.

The southern part of the conservation area is best for those accessing via watercraft from the Birch Creek River.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Although it is physically separate from the rest of the United States , Alaska is one of the most scenic and fascinating parts of the country. Its seclusion only adds to the beauty and mystery of the 49th state, making it an appealing getaway spot for intrepid travelers and nature lovers.

Along with the major cities like Anchorage , it is important to get out and experience the natural landmarks and attractions that make Alaska so beloved. As you plan your next trip’s itinerary, be sure to include as many of the following best places to visit in Alaska as possible.

10. Wrangell St. Elias National Park [SEE MAP]

Three mountain ranges called the Chugach, the Wrangell and the St. Elias converge in an area that is known as the Mountain Kingdom of North America. In the heart of this kingdom, you’ll come across the vast Wrangell St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S.

The park is home to a number of informative visitor centers and ranger stations, but you can also get off the beaten track with ease and explore glacier hiking trails or overnight camping adventures. Hunting, fishing, mountain biking and kayaking are other popular pastimes in in the Wrangell St. Elias National Park.

9. Anchorage [SEE MAP]

Although it isn’t the capital, Anchorage is the largest city in the state of Alaska. Almost half the state’s residents live in or around the city, as Anchorage serves as the economic heart of Alaska. It offers the comforts of a large US city but is only a 30-minute drive from the Alaskan wilderness.

You may want to start your time in Anchorage by visiting the Anchorage Museum of History and Art, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Then, drive along the Seward Highway to Potter’s Marsh for incredible bird watching or set off on a hike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

8. Ketchikan [SEE MAP]

The southernmost city in Alaska is Ketchikan, a scenic destination known for being the first stop for many cruise ships that head north along the coast. Located at the foot of Deer Mountain, Ketchikan is home to a wide range of attractions.

Visitors may want to stop in at the Totem Heritage Center, the Tongass Historical Museum or the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. The most scenic downtown stretch is historic Creek Street, which is only a short distance away from the cruise ship docks. Once a rowdy red-light district, these days Creek Street is home to a quieter class of establishment but still retains its delightful historic charm.

Ketchikan is a hub for outdoor adventures, and there is no shortage of guided day tours to do things like salmon fishing, hiking through the Tongass National Forest or ziplining through the tree canopy.

7. Glacier Bay National Park [SEE MAP]

In what is known as the Panhandle of Alaska is the Glacier Bay National Park, a world-renowned spot to admire glaciers, get active outdoors and see wildlife. Kayaking is an amazing way to get around the park and see a lot at the same time, and kayaks are available for rent or through guided tours.

In Bartlett Cove, hiking trails wind in and around glaciers. Two of the most visited and most photographed spots in the park are Muir Inlet, which is off limits to motorized boats, and the John Hopkins Glacier.

6. Homer [SEE MAP]

If you’re interested in exploring nature or doing some fishing, then Homer should absolutely be on your Alaskan itinerary. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is known as the fishing capital of Alaska, and it serves as a gateway to a number of national parks.

While you’re in Homer, you can walk along the beach to the iconic Homer Spit, drive up Skyline Drive for fantastic views or spot wildlife in Kachemak Bay State Park, where you’ll find mountain goats, bald eagles, sea lions, humpback whales and black bears.

Day-long halibut fishing trips are incredibly popular, and you’re all but guaranteed an impressive haul that local restaurants will happily cook up for your dinner.

5. Juneau [SEE MAP]

The capital city of Alaska is Juneau, which serves as a major port for cruise ships through the area. It is also home to major attractions such as the Alaska State Museum, the Alaska State Capitol and the incredibly serene Shrine of St Therese.

For excellent views over Juneau, ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway, and from the top set off on one of the many hiking trails overlooking the city. Juneau is also home to a number of breweries, and there are multiple companies offering brewery tours to warm you up on a cold day.

Head to Front Street for plenty of excellent souvenir shops and local restaurants where you can sample regional cuisine.

4. Mendenhall Glacier [SEE MAP]

Just a short drive from the city of Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier, an enormous glacier that is calving, or separating, into its own adjacent lake. There are a number of different ways to experience the glacier, ranging from a simple shuttle ride to see it up close or a helicopter ride to truly appreciate the sheer size of the glacier.

The fittest visitors may want to try out the Mendenhall Glacier West Glacier Trail, which is very challenging but provides incredible opportunities for photography. Also worth a visit is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which includes exhibits about the glacier as well as several viewing platforms.

3. Kenai Fjords National Park [SEE MAP]

Visiting the Kenai Fjords National Park is like stepping back in time to the ice age. Glaciers and ice caps still exist and touch the edge of the ocean, creating dramatic and unforgettable views.

Half of the park is covered in ice year-round, and there are deep fjords that have resulted where the water valleys are formed. These fjords are the ideal home to a lot of aquatic wildlife, and you’ll easily spot migrating whales as well as birds swooping down to feed on the fish in the water.

Because of the icy conditions, many visitors choose to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park on a guided day tour, although there are limited accommodation choices in the park itself.

2. Katmai National Park [SEE MAP]

In Southwestern Alaska is the Katmai National Park, a scenic retreat close to both Homer and Kodiak Island . At the heart of the park is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an enormous ash flow that remained after the 1912 eruption of the Novarupta Volcano.

Also in the Katmai National Park are incredible opportunities to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. In particular, you can spot brown bears who feed on the local salmon. Fishing is also a popular pastime thanks to the abundance of rainbow trout and salmon.

1. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

One of the famous and most popular places to visit in Alaska is the Denali National Park. Home to the iconic and towering peak of Denali (also known as Mount McKinley), which is the country’s highest mountain, Denali National Park is a protected wilderness area where all kind of wildlife can be seen. Spot bears, moose, wolves and more while walking along the Savage River, admiring the stillness of Wonder Lake or hiking through Polychrome Pass.

Hiking, whitewater rafting and back-country camping are popular ways to explore the national park, but there are also bus tours for a climate-controlled and safer way to get around. Short, ranger-led trail walks are available from the Denali Visitor Center, where you’ll also find informative and educational exhibits.

Map of Alaska

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Reader interactions.

September 12, 2019 at 11:51 am

I have been to Alaska and it is great

January 18, 2018 at 2:37 pm

Hi I’m Sam, 24 years old, and Ive lived up here since i was born. Alaska has so much to offer. The Northern Lights arent out every night but you can catch them in the middle of the night closer to midnight or the early morning.

June 20, 2017 at 8:41 pm

I am thinking of coming to Alaska next year. I would like to stay in a big city or town with lots to do. I would also like to see the northern lights. Also I’m interested. In 24 hour days and nights. I’m a country girl living the city life and I like both. Joe my husband is a city mouse. We also love zip lines. What all could we get to do there in Alaska.

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The Top 15 Destinations in Alaska

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Alaska is a vast and rugged land, home to 17 of America’s highest peaks, with thousands of rivers (including the Yukon River), more than 3 million lakes, and more active ice fields and glaciers than anywhere else in the world. Travelers venture to The Last Frontier to see wildlife, set foot in eight different national parks, gaze up at star-filled skies, marvel at the aurora borealis, learn about local cultural groups and native history, and experience adventure-filled activities like dog mushing, hiking, flightseeing, and kayaking. Keep reading to discover the top 15 destinations in the U.S.’s 49th state.

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks

Dark skies, deep in an Alaskan winter, can last 16-18 hours per day, which is conducive to seeing dancing bars of light caused by electrically charged particles from the sun that strike the gases in our atmosphere. See the Aurora Borealis, on a clear night, in Fairbanks and brace for the cold temperatures, which can drop to well below freezing. The northern light-viewing season is between mid-September and late April, with March being the peak, though there are no guarantees. A good resource for Aurora hunters is the Space Weather Prediction Center .

Mendenhall Glacier

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Near Juneau, the state capital, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most remarkable sights to see in Alaska. This 13-mile long glacier ends at Mendenhall lake and is easily seen from the Mendenhall Visitor Center . Bring your camera and take the short walk down Photo Point Trail, continue on to Nugget Falls, and hike the Trail of Time. You can also see the glacier from a kayak or on a canoe tour.

The Alaska Highway

Kevin Smith / Design Pics / Getty Images

The scenery on the Alaska Highway, also known as Alaska-Canadian Highway, is something straight out of Jon Krakauer’s "Into the Wild." From Dawson Creek in British Columbia, through the Yukon Territory, to Delta Junction, this stretch of road was built during WWII to connect the lower 48 states to Alaska via Canada and is now a favorite experience for road trippers.

Artie Photography (Artie Ng) / Getty Images

The southern tip of the Inside Passage is the ideal location for views of Deer Mountain and Tongass Narrows, where you’ll hear float planes, fishing boats, ferries, and barges. On Tongass Avenue, you’ll see pastel-colored homes built on stilts, hanging over the water. Wander along Creek Street, a boardwalk in Ketchikan, for shopping and to take photographs of historic buildings. Day fishing trips, flight tours, kayaking, and hiking are all fun to do as well.

Prince William Sound

Naphat Photography / Getty Images

Prince William Sound is an inlet of the Gulf of Alaska. You'll be able to see towering tidewater glaciers as you venture into Blackstone Bay, home to Blackstone and Beloit Glaciers, which reach 200 feet high. Cruise into Harriman Fjord to get a look at Surprise Glacier and listen as chunks of ice fall—or calve—into the water, making a loud booming sound. Waterfalls, bird rookeries, rafts of sea otters, and floating harbor seals all can be spotted.

Denali National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America, stretching 20,310 feet above sea level to the summit. Visit Denali National Park , in the northern Alaskan Range, to get a peek at this wonder as you travel down the only road in the park. You’ll likely see moose drinking water out of braided rivers, grizzly bears wandering the tundra, and Dall sheep clinging to hilltops dotted with spruce trees. Pursuit , an experiential tour company, can arrange for a custom tour of Alaska’s interior as well as Denali National Park.  

Anchorage is the state's largest city, housing 236,000 people and as such, there's an abundance of things to do. One highlight is the Anchorage Museum , which tells the tales of Alaska’s native peoples. See a Tlingit war helmet, an  Iñupiaq feast bowl , and artifacts from the Yup’ik and Cup’ik Eskimo peoples. Or take some time to learn about Inuit tattooing, a practice that is still done today, by women for women, to signify cultural belonging and a rite of passage. You can also see art created by Alaskan artists, thousands of photographs, and explore space at the Thomas Planetarium.

The Alaska Railroad

A delightful way to see Alaska is via train and the Alaska Railroad has five great routes for varying interests: Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery, Denali Star, Hurricane Turn, and Aurora Winter. The main line travels 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, linking several communities along the way. Take the option for GoldStar Service for an upper-level seat under a large glass-domed ceiling, access to a full-service dining car, and an Alaskan tour guide who will narrate throughout the trip.

Talkeetna is small but entirely indelible. Taste fireweed ice cream; learn about Stubbs, the cat that had mayoral duties; take a flightseeing tour; go on a guided river rafting trip; visit the art galleries; or shop around the town for Alaskan goods. There are a number of year-round events to take part in as well like the Talkeetna Winterfest, Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival, and Talkeetna Trio. Beer lovers should pop in the brewery taproom to sample one of 20 Denali Brewing Co. brews on tap.

Inside Passage

Betty Wiley / Getty Images

Massive glaciers carved out the Inside Passage millions of years ago, which is now home to bald eagle habitats, sea lions, dolphins, and migrating whales. You’ll see Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian totem poles, domed Russian churches, and large forests. The area is marked by three distinct sub-locations: the Northern Region, where Haines, Juneau, Sitka, and Skagway are located; Glacier Bay Area, home to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve ; and the Southern Region, where Tongass National Forest and Totem Bight State Historical Park sit. 

Katmai National Park and Preserve

Grant Ordelheide / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

Located in the northern Alaska Peninsula, Katmai National Park and Preserve isn’t easy to get to—you must arrive by plane or boat—but it is definitely worth it. Especially if you want to increase your chances of seeing a grizzly bear in the wild. In the park, there are three viewing platforms, located in Brooks Camp, on the south side of Brooks River. Around 2,200 brown bears inhabit the park, which means that there are more bears on the Alaska Peninsula than there are people.

Tracy Arm Fjord

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Forty-five miles south of Juneau sits the 27-mile-long Tracy Arm Fjord, a narrow waterway surrounded by craggy cliffs. Part of the Tongass National Forest, this icy natural wonder is worth venturing out to see. Bring binoculars and look for bears, eagles, and whales on a full-day boat tour. 

Seward and the Kenai Peninsula

The small town of Seward is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park , Mount Marathon, Resurrection Bay, and Bear Glacier. Visit Alaska SeaLife Center to learn about marine mammal rehabilitation, take photos of the Seward boat harbor, and visit Miller’s Landing for wildlife viewing. The Seward Community Library and Museum is worth visiting to learn about the town’s history and culture.

John Elk / Getty Images

Wooden sidewalks lead to old saloons and historic buildings in Skagway, making it feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the Klondike gold rush. Tourists descend on the town via cruise ships in the summer making it the most crowded time of year. You can take a history tour of the Skagway historic district, hike on one of the many trails that lead to lakes and waterfalls, see Davidson Glacier, wander through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, and visit Skagway Museum and Archives .

The Iditarod Race in Nome

 Jeffrey Walters / Getty Images

Downtown Anchorage is the start of the Iditarod on the first Saturday of March, with festivities lasting for a week prior to the race, including the Fur Rendevous . Many viewers, who come into town to see the action, also decide to tour other remote checkpoints along the 1,000-mile route. The race ends in Nome, and it’s a sight to see the mushers fly across the finish line. Visit a kennel before the race and try out dog sledding for yourself, indulge in a flightseeing adventure during the race, or volunteer to help with the dogs. You can also watch the results via a live stream.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Alaska In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Alaska, the final frontier of adventure travel is at the top of many bucket lists. The largest state in the United States is a destination that offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rugged wilderness of the Arctic. Alaska is a place that captures the imagination and the spirit of adventure . From the bustling city of Anchorage to the remote wilderness of Denali National Park, there is no shortage of places to visit in Alaska. And we’ve seen most of them.

Table of Contents

Top Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska’s landscape is diverse, ranging from snow-capped mountains to glaciers, fjords, and an expanse of forests. We fell in love with Alaska the first time we visited in 2011 and when taking my parents on a Holland American Cruise last summer, we were thrilled to be able to share its beauty and introduce them.

Right Now, Hurtigruten Cruises is offering up to 50% off on select cruises worldwide. Find the  Expedition Cruise that suits your needs and save now!

When choosing your cruise or land tour through Alaska, it can be difficult to decide where to stop or what to see, so we’re rounding up some of the best places to visit in Alaska that we’ve been to help you plan your trip.

1. Denali National Park and Preserve

There are 17 national parks in Alaska, and Denali National Park and Preserve is certainly the most popular of them all. It cannot be seen from a cruise and needs to be added as a land tour or you can travel to it independently. This vast wilderness area is located in central Alaska and is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali (Mount McKinley) which stands at 6190 meters (20,310 feet),

One of the first things visitors usually do at this national park is to hop aboard converted school buses to enjoy a guided scenic tour in search of grizzly bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and Dall sheep.

We took this ATV adventure which was a hoot riding along trails. The adventure includes 360° overlook views of the Alaska Range, Otto Lake, and the Healy Valley.

One of the most popular activities in Denali National Park is hiking. The park has a network of hiking trails that range from short walks to multi-day backpacking trips. It has 6 campgrounds which do get busy in the summer months so it is a good idea to make a reservation. Be sure to check in with the Denali Visitor Center before venturing out into the park.

McKinley Chalet Resort

We stayed at McKinley Chalet Resort which was awesome. Located less than 2 miles from the national park entrance, we felt right in the middle of the wilderness. The newly renovated suites in our wing were chic and modern with that rustic mountain lodge feel.

Our balcony looked over the mountains. The property is large with different areas detached from the main lodge. We enjoyed a fun evening here watching The Music of Denali as we our servers performed on stage while feeding us fresh Alaskan salmon, ribs, and mashed potatoes, family style.

2. Denali – Mt. McKinely

If you are lucky while visiting the park, you may be able to spy the majestic mountain, Denali. It is usually overcast, but we’ve been lucky enough to see it from our land tour and by a scenic flight.

A scenic flight was an absolutely gorgeous way to experience North America’s tallest peak. Seeing the glaciers and ice fields from above was an intimidating sight. At times it felt as if we could reach out and touch it. Book this scenic flight over Denali where you will fly close to the summit of Denali, enjoy views of the Alaska Range and witness the Tokositna and Ruth Glaciers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Avid climbers can attempt to conquer Denali. But unlike Mount Kilimanjaro, it requires serious climbing experience and winter camping. If you are new to mountaineering, it is better to stick to taking in scenic views.

3. Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most unique places in the world. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so with history packed in every single molecule of its ancient glacier history. 

The Grand Pacific Glacier was more than 4000 feet thick just two centuries ago but has shrunk significantly. Today the glacier has been divided into many small ones and many of them are calving to this day. That means at any moment a giant block of ice could fall off of them, which also means many of the glaciers have to be enjoyed from a distance.

The park is made up of more than 3 million acres and can only be reached by ship or float plane. Alaska’s inside passage in Glacier Bay takes you from forest to ice and is breathtaking to experience as you float the fjord. When you’re in the inside passage it is almost as though nothing else exists.

During our Holland America Cruise, we circled the bay enjoying panoramic views of the glaciers from the front deck. By having a balcony suite, we then retired to our room to enjoy the views with a glass of champagne as we relaxed in privacy taking in this wonder of the world.

4. Ketchikan

One of our favorite places to visit in Alaska is Ketchikan. The Salmon Capital of the world and Alaska’s first city, this is a town where most cruises stop either first or last. Located on the Inside Passage in southern Alaska, this frontier town was once a thriving settlement for the gold rush and as you walk along the boardwalks of historic Creek Street, you can see historic buildings from the red light district dating back to the 1800s.

Ketchikan is also one of the best places to see whales in Alaska and there are plenty of boat tours that will take you onto the water. We took a zodiac tour in Ketchikan where we explored the coast, spied bald eagles and whales from our self-drive boats.

Ketchikan also has the world’s largest collection of standing Native American totem poles. Make sure to look up to see them all. If you want to delve into Indigenous culture, visit the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples.

You can also see more Totem poles at the Saxam Village in Ketchikan and we saw Totem Bight State Historic Park on another cruise in Alaska. Located just outside of Ketchikan, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary

Ketchikan is also home to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. It covers 40 acres of protected land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and salmon.

We took a float plane out to Neets Bay to watch bears feast on spawning salmon as they fattened up for winter hibernation. This was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. Make sure to book it early as these excursions fill up quickly. If you want to see brown bears feeding on salmon instead, the place to do that is at Katmai National Park and Preserve.

6. Misty Fjords National Monument

One of the star attractions is Misty Fjords National Monument which is located just 22 miles east of Ketchikan. It is made up of sheer rock walls that reach 3000 feet straight out of the ocean. Take a scenic flight here where you’ll witness steep sea cliffs, steep fjords, and rainforests.

Where to Stay in Ketchikan

If you are staying in Ketchikan, check out the Inn at Creek Street – These restored historic buildings offer unique accommodation in the heart of downtown. Most rooms have kitchenettes and refrigerators. Details here.

The Landing – The Landing Hotel is located in downtown Ketchikan. It has The Landing Restaurant & Jeremiah’s Pub on site.

7. Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier

Many cruise ships also start and finish their journeys in Juneau, Alaska. I know we have! Named after Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian miner, and prospector Juneau is one of the more happening towns in Alaska. One of its main tourist attractions is the enormous Mendenhall Glacier located on the Juneau Ice field.

Juneau is a place in Alaska that requires at least a couple of days to explore. The town itself has a fun old-west vibe complete with saloons, boardwalks, and plenty of attractions. It’s also one of the premier places in the world to spot bald eagles with them being so plentiful there is a beach actually called Bald Eagle Beach. Read more about all the 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska

Where to Stay in Juneau

Four Points by Sheraton  – Located on the waterfront we found this to be a very convenient hotel. It was within walking distance to downtown plus it has easy access to the Seadrome Marina.

Ramada Inn by Wyndham  – Another great location in Juneau just a little farther away from the historic downtown than the Sheraton. But still within walking distance and we loved their restaurant and bar.

8. Mendenhall Ice Caves

The Mendenhall ice caves are one of the coolest things to see in Juneau. This natural attraction will make you feel as though you have been transported to a planet of ice and glass. The Mendenhall ice caves are usually accessible between July and September.

You can take a tour to see the Mendenhall Glacier and enjoy the hiking trails around the lake to see its different viewpoint.

• Book this highly-rated  Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves Tour.  For the adventure of a lifetime, paddle the Mendenhall Lake to the Glacier where you’ll get to explore the glacier up close and personal.
• Or you can join a  canoe trip to the glacier  where you’ll search for wildlife, paddle around ice flows and finally step foot on the glacier.

9. Tongass National Forest

It’s hard to believe that Alaska has a rainforest but Tongass National Forest is the largest functioning temperate rainforest on Earth. The size of Tongass is mind-blowing at more than 16 million acres of land. From both Ketchikan and Juneau, you can visit Tongass National Forest.

In the forest, you can enjoy its hiking trails and if you’re in Juneau, you can take a mere 15-minute drive to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center which is located within the forest. We took a beautiful guided hike to the glacier where we watched salmon spawn and learned about its flora and fauna. Besides Mendenhall, there are numerous other glaciers and hiking trails spread across the park. 

The park is home to all sorts of wildlife like wolves, black bears, and deer. You can even spot humpback whales and sea lions in the nearby waters. Tongass National Park has the comforts of the city within it as well as the comforts of the wild throughout.  

10. Fairbanks

The very first place we ever visited in Alaska was Fairbanks, Alaska and this town is awesome. When visiting Alaska in the summer it is truly the land of the Midnight Sun. There are so many things to do in Fairbanks from learning about Native American Culture and exploring the Chena River to relaxing in the Chena Hot Springs.

One of the more interesting places to visit is the Yukon Quest Alaska Headquarters. This is the start of the Yukon Quest dog sled race where you can learn about the famous dog mushers and teams who have taken part over the years. Including our friend Hank McCready who ran the prettiest team in Alaska. Another stop is the fountainhead antique auto museum where vintage cars are on display. It is consistently ranked as one of the best auto museums in the world.

Where to Stay in Fairbanks

For Aurora viewing check out Aurora Villa . This modern retreat is a boutique hotel offering views of the northern lights nestled in the mountains above Fairbanks.

11. Anchorage

A visit to Alaska wouldn’t be complete without seeing Anchorage. It is the largest city in Alaska and an international hub with access to Alaska’s interior and coast. It is here that you can hop on the Alaska Railroad to explore the great frontier.

Anchorage was the start of our cruise. After disembarking from the railway, we enjoyed two nights in downtown Anchorage. With cafés and restaurants, it has all the amenities of a big city. A highlight to visit is the ultra-modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center and The Alaska Native Heritage Center exploring the life and culture of Alaska’s indigenous people.

12. Skagway

Skagway is a bustling town where nearly every ship stops. It can be overwhelming spending just a day in Skagway. This old wild west town is filled with energy. In town, you can visit the Klondike Visitor’s Center to learn all about the Gold Rush that attracted people to this part of the world.

Take a step back in time and visit the Skagway National Historic District. It is located in the town of Skagway and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park has managed to ensure that ancient buildings from the Gold Rush days are still intact. Just walking through Skagway downtown will make you feel like you yourself have traveled back in time to when searching for gold and grabbing a pint after was all in a day’s work.   

13. White Pass Railway and Yukon Route Railroad

The vintage locomotive takes you along the Chilcoot Trail where prospectors risked their lives in search of gold. If you are walking around town, make your way to Pullen Creek Stream Walk to see the salmon run.

We took the best of all of Skagway by taking a helicopter flight over the glaciers out to the national forest in search of wildlife before hopping on the historic White Pass and Yukon Railroad. We have done the railroad tour on its own, but highly recommend the flight, hike, and railway tour instead. You only need to ride the railway one way and this gave us the best of all worlds.

14. Dalton Highway

If you want to go even more remote, continue on from Fairbanks to Deadhorse along the Dalton Highway near the Prudhoe Bay Oil fields and the Arctic Ocean. We haven’t done this drive, but we have been up to the Arctic Ocean in the neighboring Northwest Territories in Canada and the scenery here is truly magnificent.

The Dalton Highway is considered one of the most isolated roads in the United States. It crossed the Arctic Circle and we did this on the similar Dempster Highway. it is the coolest thing to drive right across the Arctic Circle. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy reading our 15 Great Road Trips in America

Seward is a small town located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers many activities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of things you can do in Seward including boat tours to Kenai Fjords National Park, or the Alaska SeaLife Center which is a great place to learn about marine life in Alaska and see sea lions, puffins, and other animals up close.

The surrounding mountains have plenty of hiking trails including the Harding Icefield Trail and the Exit Glacier Trail.

16. Alaska Highway

If you want to try a truly authentic experience, make sure to drive the Alaska Highway from Dawson’s Creek in British Columbia . This epic road trip crosses through southeast Alaska letting you see a different side of the sate. We made a similar journey along the Dempster Highway in the Yukon and let me tell you, there is nothing like it on Earth.

The Alaska Highway is a 1400-mile trip that ends in Fairbanks, Alaska. Along the drive, you’ll encounter glaciers and mountains and grizzly bears, and more and it will definitely be a trip you won’t forget. Of course, you don’t have to take the highway, you can simply take a plane and land yourself in one of Alaska’s big cities.

17. Kenai Fjords National Park

The Kenai Fjords National Park in the Kenai Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Alaska with glaciers, an icefield, and bears and seals lolling about. The best way to see this remote destination is to get out on a cruise where you can get out on kayaks to explore the fjords.

Make sure to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Centre in Seward before you head out to learn about trail conditions and the Kenai Peninsula before you head into the park. And don’t miss seeing Exit Glacier located just 10 minutes from Seward, it is one of Alaska’s most accessible roadside glaciers.

Kenai Fjords National Park was a national monument and then became a National park designed to protect the misty fjords, rainforest, and wildlife that make up the area. Today, the Kenai Peninsula is a beloved part of the local Anchorage community as it’s just a two-hour drive outside of the city. 

18. Wrangell Elias National Park

It’s larger than Yellowstone National Park , in fact, it’s larger than all North American national parks, Wrangell St. Elias National Park is America’s largest national park at a whopping 13.2 million acres. It’s a national treasure that few people get to see. Check out America’s first national park : Best things to do in Yellowstone NP.

The park is full of volcanoes and glaciers and the unique landscape attracts all sorts of wildlife like mountain goats and brown bears (same as grizzly bears) Wrangell St Elias National Park is part tundra and temperate rainforest. It is also home to moose, Dall sheep, bison, goats, and caribou.

One of the most interesting things you might see is ice worms. From the name, you’d think they should be see-through or white, but ice worms are actually black and you can see them through frozen surfaces. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll love the Copper River Basin Area which is part of the migratory route of numerous bird species. Additionally, you’ll likely see bald eagles, swans, ravens, and owls too. 

19. Northern Lights

While summertime in Alaska gives visitors the chance to experience the midnight sun with nearly 24 hours of daylight, when the cooler temperatures arrive you can make a trip to Alaska to see the Northern Lights.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska is in winter or late autumn and early spring. Light pollution will be your enemy so if you want to get the real Aurora experience, the best places to visit will be outside of Alaska’s big cities. You can ask the hotel that you’re staying at to wake you when the lights are out as quite a number of hotels in Alaska offer this service.

To view the Aurora Borealis stay at the Northern Sky Lodge in Fairbanks. The lodge is nestled among 21 acres, only 30 minutes from Fairbanks International Airport and 90 minutes from Denali National Park. It makes for a great base to explore the interior of Alaska.

20. Alaska Native Heritage Center

To truly appreciate the Alaskan climate and lifestyle it is definitely a good idea to learn about the indigenous history of the state. Your visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center will give you a glimpse into the lives of 11 Alaska cultures including the Haida and Tsimshian First Nations whose territory goes right into Canada and down into British Columbia .

You will get to watch traditional dancing, meet Indigenous artists, and even visit dwellings that give you a chance to experience how the Indigenous people lived in the winter in Alaska before there was electricity.

21. Iditarod National Historic Trail

The historic Iditarod Trail is best known these days for the Iditarod Dog Sledding Race but prior to the race, it was a route used by Native Americans prior to the introduction of other vehicles.

This trail took folks 50 miles north of Seward all the way to Nome. They weren’t just going for a leisurely mush however, these folks carried heavy supplies to remote communities. Dog sleds played an important part in Native transportation and Europeans that came after also adopted this efficient transportation method in the harsh northern climate.

These days you can make your own memories on the trail by walking it or using a tour operator that will take you on a traditional dog sled on the trail. The Iditarod Dog Sledd Race takes place in March and attracts a lot of attention. If you happen to be there during that time it is definitely something you shouldn’t miss.

22. Alaska Railroad

If you’re a bit of a romantic then the idea of taking a railroad across the wilderness will get you excited. The Alaska Railroad was established in 1903 and still runs today. It traverses almost 500 miles from Seward up to Fairbanks with stops along the way.

If you want a comfortable visit while checking out the Alaskan wilderness, you should book a seat on the Alaska Railroad. The ticket price will vary based on how far you travel and which cabin you decide to book. Additionally, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees on your trip while enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, Alaska glaciers, rivers and mountains.

23. Prince William Sound

It is truly a stunning sight to see so many salmon all in one place. If you’re looking for a fun day trip then look no further than Prince William Sound.

The Sound is located on the south end of Alaska with incredible scenery and is one of the prettiest places you’ll visit. You can take a boat tour out to visit the sound and also enjoy a delicious meal on the water. The Sound is surrounded by glaciers and the biggest tidewater glacier is the Columbia Glacier.

You’ll feel what a goldfish feels like as the surroundings seem bigger than life. There is also a lot of wildlife in the area so keep your camera handy for epic pics you can look at over and over again. This might not be one of the most well-known Alaska destinations, but you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring scene if you decide to be one of the few that visit.

24. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If you want to guarantee to view Alaska’s wildlife then you should check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The center aims to protect and preserve the wildlife of Alaska through education and research.

The center is located off the Seward Highway near the Portage Valley Glacier on Turnagain Arm. It is 200 acres of pure wonder as you get a chance to see bison, coyotes, bears, and other wildlife up close. The conservation center is sectioned off into areas for different wildlife. You can drive through, park your car and then take a walkthrough.

25. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge

First established to protect the great brown bears that live on Kodiak Island, today the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge protects a whole lot more. Sitting close to 2,000,000 acres the refuge encompasses Ben Island and parts of Kodiak Island, Uganik Island, the Red Peaks, and Afognak Island. 

It is full of rivers and streams and is a nesting ground for several hundred species of birds including the Bald Eagle. Today the mission of the refuge is not only just protect the brown bears, but also to conserve all wildlife, sea lions, and fish populations in the area.

It is a big breeding ground for five species of salmon that also feed the hundreds of birds that live on the island. This is hands down one of the best places to visit in Alaska. The area is only accessible by floatplane or boat so if you want to visit, you definitely should plan ahead. 

Bonus Alaska Adventure

If you are looking to go off the beaten path, you may want to book a trip to the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. It is located in northern Alaska, high above the Arctic Circle. It is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the United States.

The park covers 8.4 million acres and includes both the Brooks Range mountains and the Arctic tundra. There are no roads or trails in the park, and visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for the challenging conditions of the Arctic wilderness.

Access to the park is limited to small planes and helicopters, and visitors must obtain permits before entering the park. Despite its remoteness, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a popular destination for backpackers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are drawn to the pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes of the Arctic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prettiest places in Alaska?

If you visit any of the national parks in Alaska, you will be assured of finding a pretty place. Nothing really beats Glacier Bay National Park but Katmai National Park is one of the prettiest places around. Katmai National Park and Preserve is also one of the best places to see brown bears in the wild. Many people book this excursion at Brooks Camp.

What should you avoid in Alaska?

If you are not a seasoned hiker or climber, it’s best to stay away from the glaciers and just view them from afar or hire a guide or tour to see them with a professional. Additionally, it is best to stay off unmarked trails unless you are very experienced, and don’t venture to the backcountry unless you have experience.

What is the best way to see Alaska in 10 days?

The best way to see Alaska in 10 days is to take a cruise ship down or head to the capital city of Juneau and make your way up from there.

And these are the best places to visit in Alaska. Have you been to Alaska? Alaska is one of our favourite travel destinations on Earth and we look forward to going back soon. What did we miss and where should we go next?

Plan Your Alaska Vacation With These Resources

• Juneau: 28 Amazing Things To Do In Juneau, Alaska
• What to do in Alaska: Things To Do In Alaska
• Cruising Alaska: Uncruise Alaska – The Best Alaskan Cruise
• Packing Tips: What To Pack For An Alaskan Cruise

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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3 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Alaska In 2024”

Definitely need to spend some good time in the Matsu Valley! Probably one of the places in Alaska that has the most variety of great things to do not just seasonally, but year round!

Anchorage is my fav city in the Alaska and special Outskirts of anchorage

Thanks for your comprehensive overview about Alaska! It’s such a great summer travel destination, the last frontier 😀

• Faroe Islands
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• Getting Around
• Itineraries
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Alaska , Inspiration

24 amazing places to visit in alaska in 2024 (+ map).

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Alaska ? This is a guide to the most beautiful destinations in Alaska, from cities to National Parks.

Alaska is by far the largest state in America and home to some of the most immaculate wilderness in the world. It is teeming with wildlife, forests, glaciers, fjords, and giant mountains that eventually give way to the Arctic tundra.

The state is split into four regions, the Inside Passage , South Central & Interior , Southwest , and Arctic . Given the vastness of the country, visiting more than one region can be challenging, unless you have several weeks to spend traveling through the state.

Arctic Travel Tips uses affiliate links, meaning that if you purchase through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra charge to you.

Getting around Alaska

Given its size and challenging terrain, travelling around Alaska can be a little challenging, and different methods of transport may be needed.

There is a road network that covers large parts of Alaska. For example, there is a road network connecting Anchorage in the south with Prudhoe Bay in the North.

This mammoth drive covers 1,374 km (854 mi) in distance and will take you through some of the best scenery Alaska has. However, other areas in the state along the coast are not accessible by car.

There is a small train network that connects Fairbanks to Seward . The 775.7 km (482 mi) rail network passes through amazing places such as Denali , Anchorage , and Portage .

The train is a great way to travel through this small area of Alaska as you can sit and enjoy the scenery as it passes by. It operates year-round. However, during the winter the schedule is vastly reduced compared to the summer.

There are plenty of Alaskan cruises that cruise up and down the coast of the state. These cruises provide a great way to visit.

Alternatively, you can use scheduled ferries to navigate between more remote towns along the coast.

Air travel is the most convenient way to travel between places in Alaska. Nearly all towns have an airstrip that will be served by scheduled aircraft or chartered planes.

When planning your trip to Alaska, always check flight options as flying is the quickest and most convenient way to cover the state.

In this guide, I have listed 24 of the best places to visit in Alaska. If you feel I have missed a place, please feel free to comment below with your suggestion!

Best places to visit in Alaska

1. anchorage.

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and best known as the gateway to an Alaskan adventure. The city is home to impressive Alaskan wildlife, glaciers, hikes, and traditional local cultures.

When you’re not out exploring the picturesque Alaskan landscape that surrounds the city, you’ll find yourself getting to know Anchorage. In summer, you can travel along the 32 km (19 mi) Moose Loop by bike or on foot in search of moose and bears.

Learn more about Alaskan plant life at the Alaska Botanical Garden , I always love to visit botanical gardens when I travel. For a more unique experience, arrive in Anchorage in time to watch the annual Slam’n Salm’n Derby .

You can also pan for gold at Indian Valley Mine National Historic Site and cruise along Portage Lake to get up close and personal with the region’s glaciers.

In winter, you can escape the cold and learn more about the traditional Dena’ina Athabascan people by visiting local attractions like the Alaska Native Heritage Center , where you’ll find examples of traditional crafts, dances, and dwellings.

2. Denali National Park and Preserve

Offering more than 6 million acres of Alaskan wilderness to explore, your days in Denali National Park will be filled with hiking and wildlife watching.

In winter, explore the snowy peaks and tundra by ski, bike, and snowshoe. Visit the Murie Science and Learning Center to borrow snow equipment and learn more about the park through films and small displays.

The Roadside Bike Trail is a popular place to ski and ride bikes in winter, while Denali Sled Dog Kennels offers one-of-a-kind dog sledding excursions in the park. You might spot caribou , black bears , and wolves , so keep your eyes peeled.

In summer, hiking is more popular, with lots of travelers hiking towards Denali, which at 6,190m (20,310 ft) is the tallest peak in North America .

Bus tours are also popular as they offer an easy way to explore without having to hike. If you want to stay in Denali overnight, there are various campgrounds found throughout the reserve.

3. Kaktovik

Kaktovik is a small village in North Slope Borough with a population of approximately 300 people. Due to the city’s isolation, it is still well-known for its Inupiat traditions. However, tourists travel to the city in search of polar bears .

The best time to spot polar bears near Kaktovik is between August and October when they can be seen along the coast of Barter Island. Kaktovik Tours runs fascinating boat tours that allow tourists to see polar bears in their natural habitat.

If you’re lucky, you might get to see polar bear cubs playing!

In Kaktovik, almost 7 out of 8 residents are partly or wholly Alaska Native Inupiat, so spend time getting to know them.

4. Fairbanks

If you love all things history, you need to visit Fairbanks. Here, you’ll find a wide range of attractions that explain Alaskan traditions and historical events.

It doesn’t matter if you visit in winter or summer- you’ll spend most of your time in the museums and heritage centers. The Museum of the North houses exhibits that date back to the Arctic dinosaurs, while the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum displays luxury cars from the Gold Rush period.

If like me, you’d prefer to spend more time outside, Pioneer Park is a great place to visit. Here, you’ll find countless walking trails and historical landmarks like the S.S. Nenana Sternwheeler Riverboat.

In summer, the Chena Riverwalk is a must if you seek a scenic walk by the river. After a busy day, settle down by the river at The Pump House Restaurant , where you can enjoy traditional Alaskan dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

5. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

If you’ve always dreamed of exploring Alaska’s epic landscapes, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is perfect. This park is part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site that features rugged snow-capped mountains, towering glaciers, wild coastlines, and deep fjords.

Activities in the national park are as diverse as the park itself. In winter, you can explore the park on skis and you have an increased chance of spotting Sitka black-tailed deer and river otters .

In summer, the opportunities are endless when it comes to hiking and boating. In Bartlett Cove, you’ll find several hiking trails that allow you to explore the Alaskan wilderness. The Forest Loop Trail is one of my favorites!

If you stay at Glacier Bay Lodge , you can head out on a boat trip that visits the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers and searches for puffins , eagles , and polar bears .

6. Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a gorgeous Alaskan city that sits over the water facing the Inside Passage. The city is home to a variety of historic attractions, while its surroundings consist of fjords, glaciers, and waterfalls.

One of the most unique attractions is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show . The show takes place several times a day and showcases the impressive talents of local lumberjacks.

Take the time to visit the Totem Heritage Center , where you can learn about the history of Totem Poles and Indigenous art. The center has a large collection of Totem Poles that were provided by the Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian peoples.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to head out in search of the best views, wildlife, and hiking trails. In summer, I recommend hiking the Deer Mountain Trail. This 7.7 km (4.8 mi) trail leads through the countryside, offering impressive views of the city from above.

Alternatively, you could head out on a Misty Fjords boat expedition to visit the nearby glaciers and waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, moose, and wolverines!

7. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is most famous for the Harding Icefield, an area of extreme beauty. More than 40 glaciers flow from the icefield, creating mindblowing landscapes that are best explored on foot or by boat.

You’ll likely spend most of your time hiking and boating. A Kenai Fjords boat tour is my favorite way to explore the fjord network.

Available all year, highlights of the boat tour include Resurrection Bay and its glaciers, and the potential sightings of humpback whales. In summer and winter, you can also hike to Exit Glacier.

It is one of the most accessible valley glaciers in Alaska and is an important example of glacier regression.

If you seek a bigger challenge, the 13 km (8.2 mi) Harding Icefield Trail leaves Exit Glacier and climbs 304m (1000 ft) to offer breathtaking views of the Icefield.

Kodiak is the main city on Kodiak Island , a large island found on the south coast of Alaska. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Kodiak, no matter what they like to do.

Animal lovers will enjoy exploring the island on a Kodiak Island Expedition .

In spring and summer, bear viewing tours head out in search of the great brown bear. In winter, tours travel by dog sled and snowmobile in search of caribou and red foxes on the way to the isolated Rainy Pass Lodge .

During a winter tour, you might even spot the aurora borealis !

In Kodiak, there are several attractions open all year round. The Alutiiq Museum houses more than 250,000 artifacts from the last 7,500 years, while the Kodiak History Museum features exhibits from past and present Kodiak.

I recommend taking on the Termination Point 8 km (4.97 mi) hike during your time in Kodiak too!

Skagway is a much smaller city in southeast Alaska. A popular cruise destination in the Inside Passage , this city is best known for its Gold Rush history and lush gardens.

In Skagway, you’ll find preserved Gold Rush-era buildings, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and the famous Chilkoot Trail.

The Chilkoot Trail is a big hit with hikers and it can be accessed all year. This trail is a 53 km (33 mi) recreational route that features sweeping mountain views, river boardwalks, and relics from the Gold Rush.

To experience the scenery in more comfort, book your spot on the White Pass Summit Excursion , which operates in summer. You’ll experience the unique railroad and pass some of Alaska’s most iconic sights.

In Skagway, stop by the Gold Rush Cemetery and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Museum to learn more about the area’s mining history. At night, enjoy a unique experience and a refreshing beer at the historic Red Onion Saloon .

The port city of Seward can be found on an inlet on the Kenai Peninsula in Southern Alaska. Adventurous travelers make their way to the city to hike the breathtaking trails, experience Alaskan wildlife, get up close to the vast glaciers, and explore the historical community.

In summer, adrenaline junkies can race through the forests on a zipline at Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures , explore the fjords on a kayak tour , and take to the skies on a flightseeing tour . A plane or helicopter tour will offer a unique perspective of the glaciers and Mt. Marathon.

Boat tours are popular too, with this Seward boat tour visiting multiple glaciers and offering tourists the chance to spot humpback whales and orcas .

Keen hikers will enjoy the Ptarmigan Lake trail from Seward, while skiing lovers will enjoy tackling the groomed trails around Seward in winter.

In Seward, be sure to visit the Alaska Sea Life Center to learn more about Alaskan wildlife.

11. Talkeetna

If you hope to visit Mt Denali , consider staying in Talkeetna , an area famous for its mountaineering and artsy community.

Close to downtown Talkeetna sits Talkeetna Riverfront Park. At the park, you can walk to where 3 swift glacial rivers meet and take in awesome views of the Alaskan Range and Mt Denali. In summer, the looped trail is popular with hikers.

In winter, the trails are a popular skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding destination.

From Talkeetna, you can also jump on a flightseeing tour of Mt Denali . Running all year, this flight tour provides a unique perspective of the Alaskan wilderness.

You could also head out on a wilderness excursion with Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures , which offers thrilling tours of Devil’s Canyon.

In summer and winter, the Hurricane Turn Train leaves Talkeetna too. The hop-on, hop-off train service offers impressive views of the Alaskan backcountry.

Tourists flock to Valdez every year to enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.

One of the biggest draws to the city is Valdez Glacier Lake. This 32 km (20 mi) valley glacier is located in the Chugach Mountains and ends in Valdez.

In summer, companies like Stan Stephens Cruises run boat tours from Valdez Glacier Lake to Prince William Sound.

On a boat tour, you’ll get closer to the glacier and you might spot orcas.

In winter, it is even possible to ice skate, snowshoe, and ski across the frozen lake. Cross-country skiing and snowboarding in the Chugach Mountains are popular in winter too.

In summer, many travelers head to Valdez to hike. For beginners, the Dock Point Trail is an easy option, while more experienced hikers can take on the Soloman Gulch Trail.

After a busy day of exploring, visit The Potato for some classic Alaskan comfort food. I highly recommend the curly fries with sausage gravy! The restaurant is only open between May and September.

13. North Pole

Alaska is home to its very own North Pole , and it’s just as cool as you would expect. The North Pole is famous for its year-round Christmas decorations and candy cane-striped street lights.

The main attraction in the North Pole is Santa Claus House , which is open all year round. Perfect for children and big kids.

Santa Claus House is home to live reindeer, the largest Santa statue in the world, multiple gift shops, and of course, Santa himself. North Pole, does face stiff competition from Rovaniemi, Finland for the true home of Santa Claus!

In December, things are taken to another level with the Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar – an event filled with Christmas activities, firework displays, and local vendors.

Other points of interest include Chena Lake Recreation Area and Arctic Harvest Farm Distillery . In winter, the recreation area is a popular ice-fishing spot. In summer, the paved trails are perfect for biking and hiking.

At the distillery, you can learn how spirits are made and sample the good stuff!

Juneau is one of the best places to visit in Alaska for whale watching. There are various boat tours and kayaking tours that allow you to get closer to humpback whales. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a pod of whales feeding.

When you’re not looking for whales, you’ll find yourself exploring Mendenhall Glacier, which can be done on foot or by boat.

This Ice Adventure Tour includes a van ride through Tongass National Forest and a kayaking trip to Mendenhall Lake, where you’ll see the impressive Nugget Falls and icebergs that have calved off from the glacier.

Alternatively, you can hike along the East Glacier Loop. This 4.8 km (5 mi) loop takes you to an epic icefield viewpoint.

In winter, dogsledding is a popular activity in Juneau. This helicopter and dogsledding tour stops by Tongass National Forest and Juneau Icefield.

For some luxury in Juneau, stay at Beachside Villa . The location is stunning and you can occasionally spot seals.

Most travelers who make their way to Sitka do so to hike in Sitka National Park , which happens to be the oldest national park in Alaska and the site of Russia’s defeat of the indigenous Tlingit people.

In winter and summer, you can hike along the Totem Trail, which is arguably the most popular trail in Sitka. This trail features 20 tall totem poles and is 1.6 km (1 mi) long. The trail is mobility accessible with a paved walkway, dedicated parking places, and accessible bathrooms.

The trail that leaves the visitor center is an excellent alternative option too, as it leads through lush coastal forest and past several interesting memorial sites.

Other popular hiking trails include the Indian River Trail and the Mt. Verstovia Trail. In winter, snowboarding and skiing can be done at Bear Mountain too.

When it comes to grabbing something to eat, be sure to tuck into some freshly caught seafood at Beak Restaurant .

Homer is a small city on Kachemak Bay in the Kenai Peninsula. The main focal point in Homer is a long strip of land with art galleries, shops, seafood restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

I recommend checking out the artwork and Alaskan ivory crafts for sale in the Art Shop Gallery and visiting Fat Olives for a delicious steak or seafood dinner and a refreshing beer.

When it comes to exploring, start at the Islands and Ocean Visitor Center , where you can learn more about marine life and the best hikes.

My favorite hike is the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail in Kachemak Bay State Park. This 4.8 km (3 mi) trail is super easy and it offers one-of-a-kind views of the glacier. You might also see eagles and small hawks hunting.

In the summer, you can take a cruise of Kachemak Bay or explore the glacier lake on a paddle board tour – a super unique way to explore the area.

17. Prudhoe Bay

One of Prudhoe Bay’s main attractions is the journey to get there. Doable all year round, you can reach Prudhoe by driving along the famous Dalton Highway – a 666 km (414 mi) highway and one of the most northern roads in the world .

Prudhoe Bay is largely an oil town and home to the largest oil field in North America. Due to this, parts of Prudhoe are challenging to visit or inaccessible due to the security needs of the oil field.

Prudhoe Bay is also the unofficial end of the Pan American Highway – a 30,000 km (19,000 mile) network of roads stretching across the Americas. You can find the Northern Terminus of the Pan-American Highway on Google Maps .

It is worth noting, though, that some parts of the Pan American Highway near Prudhoe Bay can only be accessed by a pre-booked tour.

Aside from that, most tourists travel to Prudhoe Bay for wildlife watching and to dip their toes in the Arctic Ocean.

18. Utqiagvik

Utqiagvik is the northernmost town in the United States and it’s best known for its Inupiat culture, which can still be seen all over the town and its surroundings.

During summer, you can experience Indigenous Alaskan traditions at the Nalukataq festival , which usually takes place every June.

If you aren’t visiting Utqiagvik in summer, you can learn all about Inupiat history at the Inupiat Heritage Center , which presents arts and crafts from past and present Inupiat people.

Those who enjoy walking will love the Utqiagvik self-guided walking tour . This trail is accessible in summer and winter and it visits all the points of interest in the town, including the Will Rogers & Wiley Post Monument, Mound 44 Ukkuqsi Archeological Site, and the original settlement.

Make sure you take a photograph of Whale Bone Arch along the route!

If you visit in the summer, you could also join a Point Barrow tour to see the northernmost point in the United States.

19. Katmai National Park

Most tourists flock to Katmai National Park to see the resident bears. Between May and July is when bear viewing is at its best.

During this time of year, bears can be easily spotted feeding on salmon at Brook Falls, where you’ll find several awesome viewpoints and hikes.

The 2 km (1.2 mi) Brooks Fall Trail is one of the best hikes. It leads through dense boreal forest and offers wonderful bear viewing opportunities. The 2.4 km (1.5 mi) Dumpling Mountain Trail is great too!

You can also see the bears in Katmai on a flight or boat tour. I recommend taking the Katmai Brooks Falls Bear Experience tour.

On this tour, you will be flown into the heart of the park where bears can commonly be found catching salmon in the river. The bear-watching tour lasts from June until early August, with a late summer tour replacing those arriving during the rest of the month.

If you want to spend the night in Katmai, you can stay at the cozy Brooks Lodge or camp between July and September. Katmai is open in winter, but you’ll have to plan your trip carefully because the weather can make things challenging.

20. Girdwood

Girdwood is a resort town in southern Alaska that offers tourists a huge range of outdoor activities and attractions. The town is home to the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center , the Alyeska Aerial Tram , and countless hiking trails.

The wildlife conservation center houses more than 200 animal enclosures and is dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife. You’ll see brown bears, wolves, lynx, and wood bison during your visit.

The Alyeska Aerial Tram carries visitors to Alyeska Resort at the top of Mt. Alyeska (701 meters/2,300 feet). The views are exceptional and the tram operates all year. However, it is most popular in winter, when tourists can ski at the resort.

If you want to try something different in Girdwood, you could pan for gold at Crow Creek Gold Mine , or ride the Glacier Discovery Train to Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, where you’ll find an impressive icefield.

Willow is the perfect destination if you want to experience a wider range of Alaskan attractions such as dog sledding, salmon fishing, canoeing, and hiking.

Dog sledding can be done with Alaskan Husky Adventures . In winter, this tour company offers exhilarating Christmas excursions that include dog sled rides, kennel tours, and time to play with the dogs.

In July and August, keen fisherman can try their luck for salmon at Willow Creek State Recreation Area. There are plenty of designated fishing spots to choose from so you won’t be short of options.

Summer is also a good time to visit Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, where you can hire a canoe and take to the water for a couple of hours.

Alternatively, you could head to Hatcher Pass and hike to Independence Mine (only accessible between July and September).

If you love wildlife and photography, you have to visit Haines , a lively town near Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The town itself is a great place to take photographs because it sits on the water and has a breathtaking mountain backdrop.

However, on a Haines photography tour , you can visit several stunning photo spots with a local expert. You’ll photograph traditional totem poles, sweeping vistas, vast glaciers, and Chilkhoot State Park.

You should visit the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve during your visit to Haines. Up to 400 bald eagles call the 48,000-acre preserve home all year round, so there’s a good chance you’ll spot some.

If you’d prefer to do something more exhilarating, you could explore Haines on an ATV tour . Best in spring and summer, you’ll ride along the Takshanuk trail in search of cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

To learn more about Haines’s history, visit the Sheldon Museum .

Nome is a bigger Alaskan city with a population of approximately 3,500. You’ll spend most of your time in Nome exploring the city, taking in local cultures, and hiking in Bering Land Bridge National Preserve .

One of the main attractions in the city is the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum. This museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the history, culture, and artistry of the Bering Strait from its humble beginnings as a tent town to the lively city it is today.

Other notable historic locations in Nome include Swanberg Dredge and Anvil City Square. If you visit Nome in March, you’ll be able to catch the end of the historic Iditarod – a 1,688 km (1,049 mi) dog sled race that finishes in Nome.

If you visit Nome in summer, I recommend hiking to Serpentine Hot Springs to enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the tundra.

Winter poses a great time in Nome to spot the northern lights so keep your eyes peeled!

24. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park service wilderness area in the United States, and arguably the best place in Alaska for outdoor adventure.

You can explore the park in winter and summer, but it is easier to visit in summer. You’ll spend your time in the park hiking and looking for wildlife.

Six designated rivers can be explored by raft or kayak too, so I highly recommend booking a rafting tour .

The best hiking destination in the park is the Oolah Pass Packback. Nestled in the Brooks Range between the vil­lage of Anak­tu­vuk Pass and the Dal­ton High­way, this trail offers 104.6 km (65 mi) of untamed off-trail hiking routes.

Aside from epic mountain views, you might also see grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and wolverines as you hike.

Amazing places to visit in Alaska (on a map!)

I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best places to visit in Alaska. If you have any comments or suggestions of amazing places to visit in Alaska that you think I have missed, please comment below!

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Alaska Destinations

So much to see! You can't go wrong starting with a visit to Kenai Fjords and Denali National Park.

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• Denali National Park
• Seward & Kenai Fjords
• Off the Beaten Path

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Let Alaska Tour & Travel be your one-stop source for Alaska travel information and reservations. We specialize in Alaska's top travel destinations such as Seward , Anchorage , Talkeetna , and Fairbanks , as well as Alaska's most popular national parks including Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park . These destinations are all along Alaska's "railbelt," so travel is easy: Go in comfort and style aboard a luxury dome train , deluxe motorcoach , or even drive yourself in a premium 4x4 car or van rental .

Be sure to check out our trip finder , sample itineraries , and best places to visit in Alaska page for great trip ideas, and don't hesitate to contact us if we can be of any assistance.

If you like to take the road less traveled, consider one of our Off the Beaten Path destinations. Travel above the Arctic Circle and experience 24 hours of daylight, stay at a true wilderness lodge , or leave the crowds behind and explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park . Try one of our self-drive tour packages and drive to the "end of the road" in Homer , or explore other unique Alaska small towns such as Valdez and Girdwood .

Our staff of lifelong Alaskans will help you set up the perfect Alaska vacation tailored to your specific requirements. You can choose from individual lodging , activity , and transportation choices, or select one of our many pre-built Alaska vacation packages .

Best Places to Visit in Alaska

The list is long, but every place belongs on it. Read on for our top recommendations for where to go while traveling in Alaska. Learn More >

Off the Beaten Path Alaska

Curious about Alaska beyond Seward, Anchorage, and Denali? Explore destinations farther afield, from the coast to distant national parks to tiny outposts above the Arctic Circle. Learn More >

Alaska National Parks

Experience the full range of Alaska's natural beauty in national parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias. Learn More >

See the state's many national parks, tours, attractions, and places of note on this interactive Alaska map. Learn More >

Alaska Regions

Whether looking at it on a map or seeing it in person, Alaska's sheer size stands out. Make sense of the state with a breakdown of its five distinctive regions. Learn More >

Alaska Ports of Call

Visit a glacier in Juneau, ride a narrow-gauge train in Skagway, go fishing in Ketchikan, and find plenty more fun among Alaska's Inside Passage ports of call. Learn More >

Alaska Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do & See

Are you looking for the best things to add to your Alaska bucket list? Look no further, because I have got you covered. In this list, I am sharing all the spots not to miss!

With massive glaciers, vast mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, the state provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are some of the best places to visit in Alaska.

The state’s remote capital, Juneau, will make you feel the authentic Alaskan experience with its mountainous and glacier-studded terrain (accessible only by boat or plane). Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park are also fantastic options, the former being home to North America’s tallest peak (Denali/Mt. McKinley) and the latter boasting massive glaciers. All three provide their own unique experiences, like dog sledding, whitewater rafting, and whale watching (to name a few).

A List of the Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Alaska

1. visit the smallest national forest (adak).

Near the furthest tip of the Aleutian Island chain is Alaska’s tiniest ‘national forest’, Adak National Forest . It is so small that the signage says it all: “You are now entering and leaving the Adak National Forest.”

During WWII, a (Christmas) tree planting program was initiated between 1943 to 1945 to boost the troops’ morale on the site. Due to the harsh weather conditions, however, the program failed, and the signage was put up as a joke. Miraculously, around 33 pine trees survived to this day, clumped together like a large bush due to the climate.

Although it is not officially recognized as a national forest, it is a unique sight in Alaska definitely worth visiting. The local Aleuts decorate the whole forest each Christmas as a nod to its origins.

2. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center (Anchorage)

Opened in 1999, the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and strengthening the cultural heritage of Alaska’s native groups. It is located a couple of miles northeast of Anchorage.

The Heritage Center houses several exhibits on the history, art, and traditions of the native groups of Alaska. The center also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including dances, concerts, and workshops.

3. See the Burial Spirit Houses (Anchorage)

The native village of Eklutna in Anchorage is home to the colorful spirit houses, a combination of Russian Orthodox and Native Alaskan Athabascan tradition. It is located in the graveyard outside the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.

These tiny houses are painted by families in different colors and were said to provide a temporary dwelling place for the souls during the 40 days they are believed to linger in the world. A wooden three-bar Russian Orthodox cross is also placed in most of the spirit houses.

4. Hike Chugach State Park (Anchorage)

Chugach State Park is one of the best places to go hiking in Anchorage. The park has a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. And with nearly 500,000 acres of land, there’s plenty of room to explore. 

Here are some of the best hikes in Chugach State Park:

• Eagle and Symphony Lakes Trail: This moderate hike offers stunning views of both Eagle and Symphony Lakes. The trail is about 12 miles long and should take around 4 to 5 hours to complete.
• Powerline Pass Trail: This challenging trail is only for experienced hikers. It runs along a powerline, so there are no views. However, it’s a great workout and the perfect way to get away from the crowds. The trail is about 11 miles long and can take up to 6 hours to finish.
• Bird Ridge Trail: Bird Ridge is one of the most popular trails in Chugach State Park. It’s known for its incredible views of Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains. The trail is about 5 miles long and takes around 4 hours to complete.

5. Take in the Street Art (Anchorage)

You might not expect to find much street art in Anchorage, Alaska, but if you take a walk around downtown, you’ll be proven otherwise. The city is actually full of colorful murals, graffiti, and sculptures, all of which are made by local artists and depict the city’s history and culture. How many of them will you find?

6. See the World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall (Anchorage)

Yes, you’ve read that right. Seemingly coming straight out of a sweet tooth’s dream, the Alaska Wild Berry Products factory in Anchorage is home to the world’s largest chocolate waterfall.

Made in 1994, this 20-foot waterfall churns out 3000 pounds of real chocolate cascading down authentic copper candy kettles and settling in a swirling chocolate pool at the bottom. As tempting as it may seem, however, you aren’t allowed to eat/drink from it. Fortunately, you can get yourself some delicious chocolate at the nearby candy counter. You can also watch the staff making delectable goodies in action by visiting one of their four kitchens.

9. See the Barrow Whale Bone Arch (Utqiagvik)

The Barrow Whale Bone Arch is a unique arch made from the jawbone of a bowhead whale in Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska. Believed to have been built during the late 19th century, it serves as a constant reminder of the town’s whaling history and tradition. As Utqiagvik is quite remote, you can only reach it by plane.

10. Check Out Igloo City (Cantwell)

Igloo City is one of the most popular attractions in Cantwell, Alaska, located along the George Parks Highway. Constructed during the 1970s by builder Leon Smith, it was supposed to be a four-story hotel shaped into a massive igloo. Unfortunately, the hotel was never fully finished and remains closed to this day. Still, this giant igloo has continued to fascinate and attract visitors worldwide.

11. Visit the Quirky Town of Chicken

Chicken is a small town 200 miles east of Fairbanks in Alaska best known for its gold mining history and is one of the last surviving gold rush towns. It was supposed to be called “Ptarmigan,” after the birds in the area of the same name. However, due to conflicts with the spelling, they finally agreed to name the town “Chicken” instead.

The town has an official population of 7, with the numbers going up to 100 or more during the summer due to miners and tourists. They also have four shops: a lively saloon, a general store, a cafe, and a liquor store. Due to the town’s remote location, there is no electricity and plumbing (the locals do have generators though). For answering nature’s call, they have a three-door outhouse named ‘Chicken Poop.’

12. Explore Kennicott Ghost Town (Chitina)

Kennicott Ghost Town is a fascinating place to explore. Once a thriving copper mining town, Kennicott was abandoned in 1938 when the last of the mines closed. The ghost town was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

Today, only a handful of buildings remain, offering a glimpse into the town’s past. The most iconic structure is the large red mill building standing a couple of storeys above the Kennicot glacier. Visitors can also explore the remains of the different mines in the area, such as the Bonanza, Jumbo, and Erie mines (all strenuous hikes).

13. Cross the Kuskulana River Bridge (Chitina)

The Kuskulana River Bridge is a historic steel truss bridge above the Kuskulana River in Chitina, Alaska. The bridge was created in 1910, sitting 238 feet above a deep rocky gorge and spanning 525 feet (160 m) in length.

With the addition of guard rails and new wooden planks on the bridge, it may not be as thrilling to cross as back then. Still, it offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area and the river below.

14. Tour the Husky Homestead (Denali)

Husky Homestead is a tour operation located in Denali National Park. Visitors to Husky Homestead can tour the kennels, meet the dogs, and learn about their lives as working animals. The tour also includes a short sled ride, weather permitting. Husky Homestead is a great place to learn about life in the Arctic and to get up close and personal with some of its furry residents.

15. Spot Wildlife at Denali National Park (Denali)

Denali National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska. Located in the heart of the Alaska Range, the national park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. The park also contains Denali (Mount McKinley), the tallest mountain in North America.

Visitors can explore the park by foot, bicycle, or car (albeit only a short portion during the summer, as there is only one road). There are many hiking trails and camping sites available, as well as a variety of ranger-led programs. Whether you’re looking for wildlife viewing opportunities or a chance to challenge yourself with some difficult hikes, Denali National Park has something to offer everyone.

16. See the Lady of the Lake (Eielson AFB)

While it might sound like a supernatural entity or Alaskan legend, the Lady of the Lake is actually the remains of a WWII B-29 Bomber plane on a lake inside the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. It once flew between Alaska and Japan, serving as a recon aircraft for finding evidence of Soviet nuclear testing.

Although no one knows exactly how the aircraft ended up in the lake, it was believed to have been put there for water rescue training. Visitors can enter the base by providing a Military ID or a Visitor’s Pass (which you can get at the Visitor Control Center).

17. Check Out Cars at Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum (Fairbanks)

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks is a must-see especially for anyone who loves cars. The museum houses an impressive collection of over 95 automobiles from the early 1900s, including a Model T and a 1906 Cadillac Model K. Most of these are operable, so you’ll get to see the vehicles in action as well.

In addition to the cars on display, they also have a collection of vintage clothing worn by people back in the day. The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon, and it’s sure to please any car enthusiast.

18. Visit Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve (Fairbanks)

Nestled deep in the heart of Alaska, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the most remote and untouched corners of the world. There are no roads or trails in the park, and visitors must travel by foot, canoe, or small plane. This wild setting provides an incredible opportunity to experience true wilderness and see firsthand the beauty of the natural world.

The park is home to an amazing array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and wolverines. It is also a birder’s paradise, with nearly 150 species of birds having been observed in the park. For those looking for a true adventure, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is an unforgettable destination.

19. Visit the Museum of the North (Fairbanks)

If you’re looking to learn more about Alaska’s culture and history, then a trip to the University of Alaska’s Museum of the North is a must. It boasts a whopping 2.5 million artifacts in its collection, organized into ten research disciplines like archaeology, fine arts, ethnology, and more.

Some of the museum’s highlights include the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery , which showcases native (and non-native) Alaskan art; The Place Where You Go To Listen , an audio-visual exhibit featuring the sounds and movement of the sun, moon, earthquakes, and auroras; and two auditorium shows during summer called Dynamic Aurora and Winter . They also have a Museum Store where they sell Alaska-made products such as art, books, and jewelry, perfect for finding your souvenir.

20. Tour the Running Reindeer Ranch (Fairbanks)

The Running Reindeer Ranch is a family-owned business located north of  Fairbanks, Alaska, providing visitors with an up-close and personal look at Alaskan reindeer for over 15 years. They offer a variety of interactive experiences that allow guests to get to know these amazing animals.

These include walking alongside reindeer through the surrounding birch forest, doing yoga with reindeer, enjoying the local music with reindeer, and even having a unique Alaska-style wedding with, you’ve guessed it, reindeer!

21. Soak In Natural Hot Springs At Chena Resort (Fairbanks)

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a world-famous hot springs destination located 61.3 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort features an open-air naturally-heated rock lake (adults only) and an indoor hot tub and pool, making it a popular spot for visitors to soak and relax in its mineral-rich waters. It is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, which is always a plus.

In addition to the hot springs, the resort also offers cabins, RV sites, and a variety of other amenities like relaxing massages and delicious dining.

22. Chill-ax at The Aurora Ice Museum (Fairbanks)

Located at Chena Resort, the Aurora Ice Museum is home to a collection of intricate ice sculptures created from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow by husband-and-wife duo Steve and Heather Brice, who are both accomplished ice sculptors as well.

The ice sculptures range from giant chess sets to igloos to entire rooms built entirely out of ice and so much more. Even the ice bar (including the glasses and stuff) are all made of ice. Adding to the museum’s charm are the glimmering lights resembling the colors of the Aurora Borealis.

23. See the Northern Lights (Fairbanks)

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is one of the most beautiful natural light displays in the world, with different color shades dancing around the sky. While the aurora is technically present all year round, it can be seen clearly during the Aurora Season (late August to early April) when the skies are dark enough.

Some of the best spots in Fairbanks include the Chena Hot Springs, Cleary Summit, and Murphy Dome.

24. See the Animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Girdwood)

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a non-profit animal sanctuary dedicated to the conservation, education, and care of Alaska’s wildlife. They primarily take in orphaned and injured animals, the majority of which call the center their permanent home due to lacking the necessary skills needed to survive in the wild.

With over 310 acres of land (110 acres of which are dedicated solely to wood bison), the center has plenty of space which allows the animals to live in large, natural environments. Some of the animals include lynx, brown bears, moose, wolves, and more.

25. Be in Awe of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (Gustavus)

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska. The park is best known for its glaciers, which can be seen up close on a cruise (I visited while on a Holland America Alaskan cruise !)or from the air. The glaciers are a major draw for visitors, but the park also offers opportunities to see wildlife, explore inlets and coves, and experience the Alaskan wilderness.

The park is located a couple of miles west of Gustavus, Alaska, and covers an area of 3.3 million acres. It was established as a national monument in 1925 and was upgraded to a national park in 1980. Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in glaciers or Alaska’s natural beauty.

26. Visit the World’s First Hammer Museum (Haines)

The city of Haines is home to the world’s first hammer museum, aptly called The Hammer Museum . Founded in 2002, they have a massive collection of hammers amounting to over 2000 and coming from different time periods and trades. They also have a giant hammer standing at around two stories tall just outside the museum!

27. See the Rescues at Kroschel Wildlife Center (Haines)

The Kroschel Wildlife C enter is a 60-acre wildlife refuge located 28 miles north of Haines, Alaska. They feature rescued animals from over 15 different Alaskan wildlife species, such as grizzlies, wolves, moose, snowy owls, and more.

Aside from the animals, they also have a 600-yard groomed trail where you can enjoy an easy hike while taking pictures of the scenery and animals. There’s also a gift shop where you can get some handmade Alaskan souvenirs.

P.S. Reservations are required before you can visit the center.

28. Drive One of the Famous Highways

Drive the Alaska Highway

The Alaska Highway is one of the most iconic roads in North America. Spanning almost 1,400 miles, it traverses some of the most rugged and beautiful terrains in the world. The highway was originally built during World War II as a way to connect Alaska to the continental United States.

Today, it is a popular route for road trippers and adventure seekers from all over the globe. While the journey can be challenging, it is also incredibly fulfilling. Those who make the journey are rewarded with stunning views, unique experiences, and a sense of accomplishment from conquering one of the most challenging roads on the planet.

Dalton Highway

The Dalton Highway is a 414-mile long road that runs through the heart of Alaska. It was originally built as a supply route for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, but has been open to the public since 1994. Despite its remote location, the Dalton Highway has become a popular destination for adventure seekers worldwide. The road winds its way through stunning mountain scenery, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. In addition, the Dalton Highway is one of the only roads in North America that crosses the Arctic Circle.

For many visitors, driving the Dalton Highway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Due to its extreme weather conditions and remote location, the highway can be a challenging drive. However, with a little preparation and caution, anyone can enjoy a safe and unforgettable journey on one of North America’s most scenic roads.

Denali Highway

The Denali Highway is one of Alaska’s most scenic drives. The road winds its way through the Alaskan mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife is commonly seen along the highway, including caribou, moose, and bears. The drive can be challenging at times (watch out for potholes!), but it is well worth the effort. The Denali Highway is a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska.

Seward Scenic Highway

The Scenic Highway is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The winding road takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, including towering mountains, rushing waterfalls, and pristine lakes. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the view or explore the many hiking trails.

The Scenic Highway is also a popular destination for bicyclists and motorcyclists who enjoy the challenges of the winding road. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a lengthy vacation, the Scenic Highway is sure to provide an enjoyable experience.

29. Leave a Dollar Bill at the Salty Dawg Saloon (Homer)

One of the most iconic landmarks on Homer Spit, the Salty Dawg Saloon is one of the first cabins ever built in the city of Homer. What makes the place a popular destination are the thousands upon thousands of dollar bills signed and tacked to its walls by visitors (which you should too!), a beloved tradition of the saloon.

Although there is no food, you can enjoy their wide selection of drinks and beers while socializing with the locals. They also have other items for sale, such as shirts, mugs, and more.

30. Ride the World’s Largest Zip Rider at Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Alaska is renowned for its natural beauty, and the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point is one of the best ways to experience it. With a height of over 1,300 feet and a length of 5,495 feet, soar through the air at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour as you descend down the mountain. Of course, being high up lets you have the chance to take in the surrounding landscape… while screaming at the top of your lungs!

31. Walk on Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau)

You probably already knew that you could see A LOT of glaciers in Alaska, but did you know that you could actually walk on one? Yep, that’s true! Enter Mendenhall Glacier , one of its most popular tourist destinations. Covering an area of 95.27 km² and reaching elevations of up to almost 5,200 feet, it has attracted thousands of people each year to see and walk on its surface.

The glacier can only be reached by helicopter or guided walk. Fortunately, you’ll find a few Alaskan cruise excursions that take you from downtown Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier via helicopter.

(We did the Holland America standard guided walk, where we flew around the glacier for a bird’s eye view before landing and walking on the glacier. I even drank glacier water, which is also an option! 

As the weather can be unpredictable, make sure to dress appropriately, and of course, always follow the park service’s rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

32. Go Whale Watch in Juneau

If you find yourself in Juneau during whale watching season, you’re in for a treat! Humpback whales can be seen in the waters around Alaska from May through September, and Juneau is one of the best spots to see them.

There are several tour companies that offer whale watching excursions, and most of them depart from the downtown area. While on tour, you’ll have a chance to see humpback whales up close as they feed, play, and breach. You might even see a whale tail or two!

So whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique activity, be sure to add whale watching to your Juneau itinerary.

33. Take a Glacier Trail at Tongass National Forest (Juneau)

If you’re looking for a breathtaking outdoor adventure, check out the Glacier Trails at Tongass National Forest in Juneau! Some of these include East Glacier Trail, West Glacier Trail, Herbert Glacier Trail, and Laughton Glacier Trail.

The trails wind through some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska, including glaciers, mountains, and forests. There are trails for all skill levels, so everyone can enjoy the views. In addition, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, eagles, and salmon.

The Glacier Trails are a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska and get some fresh air at the same time. So whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking to take a leisurely walk, be sure to check out the Glacier Trails at Tongass National Forest in Juneau.

34. Explore the Mendenhall Ice Caves (Juneau)

The Mendenhall Ice Caves are one of the most enchanting tourist destinations near Juneau, Alaska. These are formed when the ice inside the glacier melts, transforming its insides into ever-changing ‘ice caves.’ And because the ice reflects blue light from the sun, it gives the caves an otherworldly feeling you should experience at least once.

As the caves are only formed because of the melting ice, their appearance and location inside the glacier can vary. Sometimes there are no caves at all. Be sure to check with the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center first if you’re planning to go inside the ice caves. You can also check out this FAQ for more information.

35. Explore Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular tourist destinations. And it’s no wonder, because the park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are just a few of the best things to do at Kenai Fjords National Park:

• Take a cruise: A cruise is the perfect way to see the stunning scenery of Kenai Fjords National Park up close. There are a number of different cruise options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests and schedule.
• Hike: There are plenty of trails to explore in Kenai Fjords National Park, ranging from easy walking paths like the Exit Glacier Overlook Trail to challenging hikes such as the Harding Icefield Trail. No matter what your fitness level, you’ll be able to find a trail that’s right for you.
• Wildlife watching: Kenai Fjords is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, harbor seals, sea otters, and birds. A wildlife tour is the perfect way to see these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
• Camping : The park has a 12-site, tent-only campground at Exit Glacier on a first-come, first-serve basis. Backcountry camping is also an option. As for RV camping, the closest ones would be around the city of Seward, which is east of the park.

36. Visit the Totem Bight State Historical Park (Ketchikan)

Totem Bight State Historical Park is a state park located ten miles northwest of Ketchikan, Alaska. The park features a replica of a traditional chieftain house and 14-15 totem poles, all of which were restored by skilled Tlingit and Haida carvers. Visitors can learn about the culture and history of the Native peoples of Alaska through totem poles, artwork, and exhibits. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

37. See Misty Fjords (Ketchikan)

The Misty Fjords is one of the must-see (and should-see) places in Alaska. It is part of the Tongass National Forest, comprising the largest wilderness area in the forest (2.3 million acres of the forest’s 16.7 million acres.) It is known for its breathtaking mountain views, deep fjords, rainforests, and wildlife. The Misty Fjords is also only accessible by boat or floatplane due to the area’s remoteness.

Visitors can take advantage of the many hiking and camping opportunities in the area, with plenty of activities to enjoy like kayaking/canoeing, flightseeing, wildlife viewing, and visiting attractions like the New Eddystone Rock (a 237-foot basalt pillar covered in trees.)

38. Go Bear Watching at Katmai National Park (King Salmon)

Located near King Salmon, Alaska, Katmai National Park is known for its abundance of different bear species and sockeye salmon (which the bears love to eat). Moose, caribou, wolves, sea otters, and the occasional humpback whale are just some of the other animals you will find in this bear country.

Visitors to the park can enjoy different activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and of course, bear-watching. One of the best spots for bear-watching is Brooks Camp, which has four viewing platforms. One other highlight of the park is a hike to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an ash-filled valley. 

39. See the Eldred Rock Lighthouse (Lynn Canal)

The Eldred Rock Lighthouse is the oldest and the last of ten other lighthouses built in Alaska still standing today. It sits upon Eldred Rock island in Lynn Canal, around 55 miles northwest of Juneau.

The lighthouse stands at 17 meters (56 feet), with an octagonal-shaped base, and once has a unique lens that allows flashing of red and white lights alternately. The lighthouse can only be viewed from cruise ships or ferries passing through the canal, as there are no tours or docks in the island.

40. Go to Santa Claus’s House in the North Pole

Would you believe me if I told you Santa Claus is real? And it’s not just him, by the way. Even his helpers and house in the North Pole pretty much exists!

That’s right, in the city of North Pole, Alaska, stands the Christmas store called Santa Claus House , where every day is Christmas Day. They have a wide assortment of products ranging from pastries to Christmas ornaments to color-changing mugs and so much more. And in keeping with the Christmas tradition, you can even write Santa a letter or meet his reindeers next door. Of course, you wouldn’t want to miss good ol’ Santa Claus and his wife for some picture taking!

41. Walk the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes at the National Park (Arctic Borough)

Sands and sweltering temperatures. These two are probably the last things that will cross your mind (or if it will even cross your mind) when in Alaska.

Enter the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes , one of Kobuk Valley National Park’s most iconic sights. These sand dunes reach up to 100 feet in height and cover an area of about 30 square miles. Due to the wind, the landscape’s appearance changes ever so often. Temperature-wise, it reaches 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer.

Of course, it is not all sand. The surrounding woods and tundra is home to different animals like bears, wolves, and moose. During spring and fall, you might even see a massive caribou migration.

42. Get Your Photo at the Arctic Circle Monument Sign

While it may not seem as much at first glance, you can think of the Arctic Circle Monument Sign as a ‘save point’ of sorts for travelers, serving as the entrance to the Arctic Circle and a rest stop before continuing your journey. Before you cross over to the Arctic side, be sure to commemorate it by having your photo taken!

As a bonus, the back of the sign features stickers placed by visitors indicating where they came from. Be sure to bring one of your own :)

43. See Hubbard Glacier (Wrangell-St. Elias National Park)

The Hubbard Glacier is one of the most active glaciers in the world, where it grows and advances at a rate of around 80 feet per year towards the Gulf of Alaska. With a total height of 600 feet (where 350 feet is above water) and stretching out 76 miles long and 7 miles wide, it is also one of the largest glaciers in North America.

One of the glacier’s most thrilling sights is its calving. Visitors can go on a  cruise that takes them close to the glacier’s face, where they can see icebergs calving off into the sea. Adding to the experience are the thunderous sounds it makes as the ice separates from the main glacier.

44. Cruise the Inside Passage

For many people, an Alaskan cruise is the trip of a lifetime. And one of the highlights of an Alaskan cruise is the Inside Passage (I did mine with Holland America !). The Inside Passage is a network of waterways that runs along the coast of Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. It is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, including towering mountains, pristine glaciers, and lively wildlife. Cruising through the Inside Passage is a truly unforgettable experience. And it’s no wonder so many people choose to take an Alaskan cruise each year!

45. See the Tracy Arm Fjord

There is no shortage of stunning places to visit in Alaska, and Tracy Arm Fjord is just one of them. The fjord is located about 45 miles south of Juneau and is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors to Tracy Arm Fjord can see glaciers (don’t miss the twin Sawyer Glaciers!), waterfalls, and mountains, as well as whales, seals, and other marine life. There are also numerous hiking and camping opportunities in the surrounding area.

46. Pan for Gold at Independence Mine (Palmer)

The Independence Mines was once the site of a gold mining operation in Palmer, Alaska during the 1950s. It became a part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and a state historic park was established on the site in 1980.

Tourists can learn more about the mines’ history through the visitor center and their interactive exhibits. You will also find restored buildings around the mining complex, which include a timber shed, warehouse, and mess halls. As the place is a gold mine, visitors can also experience panning for gold from a stream below the mines. And did I mention you can also take it home with you?

47. Take a Farm Tour at Musk Ox Farm (Palmer)

Founded in 1954, Musk Ox Farm is a unique non-profit organization dedicated to the domestication of the musk ox, a mammal that has existed since the Ice Age (how cool is that?!). This 75-acre farm is located in the Matanuska Valley just north of Palmer, Alaska.

The 45-minute walking tour will take you around the farm, where you’ll get up close and personal with these friendly oxen. They also have a lovely gift shop where they sell products made from musk ox wool called qiviut.

48. See the Salmon Run at Lake Clark National Park (Port Alsworth)

Lake Clark National Park in Port Alsworth is one of the best salmon fishing spots in the state. The park offers a variety of salmon fishing opportunities, especially during salmon runs (around May to September), where the fish come in droves to spawn. They can be found in both the Kenai and Copper Rivers, and Lake Clark is home to several species of salmon, including sockeye, pink, and chinook salmon.

In addition to salmon fishing, the park also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

49. Take a Train Trough the Alaskan Wilderness

McKinley Explorer

The McKinley Explorer is an Alaska Railroad train that offers daily service between Denali and Anchorage. The train’s upper level features comfortable seating, large windows, and plenty of legroom, making it a great way to relax and take in the stunning scenery of Alaska.

In addition to gorgeous views of mountains, forests, and wildlife, the McKinley Explorer also offers an onboard dining car on the lower level, where passengers can enjoy Alaska-inspired cuisine while traveling.

Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is a Class II railroad that runs from Seward to Fairbanks, traversing some of the most scenic and remote territories in the United States. It is owned by the state of Alaska and operated by a non-profit corporation.

The railroad’s main line is over 470 miles long, making it one of the longest railroads in North America. Several branch lines also exist, including one at the city of Whittier.

There are many different ways to experience the Alaska Railroad, from short scenic rides to multi-day excursions. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just a way to relax and take in the scenery, the Alaska Railroad has something to offer everyone.

50. Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center (Seward)

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a world-class marine research facility and aquarium in Seward, Alaska. Visitors can learn about the center’s research programs, see diverse marine life up close, and join in on educational programs. Different public exhibits such as touch tanks, pools, and aviaries also exist within the center.

One of the center’s key roles is the rehabilitation of sick and injured marine animals. Depending on the circumstance, the marine animals are returned to their natural habitat once they’ve been nursed back to full health.

With its commitment to scientific research and public education, the Alaska SeaLife Center provides an inspiring and informative experience for all who visit.

51. Take the Totem Pole Trail at Sitka National Historic Park

Totem Pole Trail in Sitka National Historical Park is probably one of the most unique trails one can experience in Alaska. The trail winds through a dense forest of spruce and hemlock, and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains.

It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, eagles, and salmon. Totem poles line the trail, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich culture of the Tlingit and Haida people.

52. Visit the Most Popular Park in Alaska: Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (Skagway)

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park commemorates the stampede to the Klondike gold fields and the achievements of those who succeeded in reaching the gold fields. It consists of four units: the Skagway Historic District, Chilkoot Trail/Dyea Townsite, White Pass Trail, and Seattle Unit (which is in Seattle). Each unit preserves and interprets different aspects of the story of the Klondike Gold Rush.

53. Get a Drink at the Red Onion Saloon (Skagway)

The Red Onion Saloon is a popular bar and restaurant in Skagway, Alaska. The Saloon is located in an old mining town and is known for its historical significance. The bar was originally established in 1897 and was a popular hangout for miners during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, the Saloon is still a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The bar features a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as a menu of American comfort food. The Saloon also has a stage for live music and events, making it a great place to enjoy a night out. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a drink or to experience Skagway’s rich history, the Red Onion Saloon is definitely worth a visit.

54. See the Tiny Church of Soldotna

As the name implies, the Tiny Church of Soldotna is a church located in the small village of Soldotna, Alaska. Beside it is a larger domed church, both of them being owned and managed by the Trinity Christian Center.

What’s peculiar about the church (aside from its size) is that it is left open throughout the day. The idea behind it is that it allows anyone a quiet and private spot for prayer/access to God, whatever time of day they might need it. Inside the tiny church are three pews, songbooks, and Bibles.

55. See Proenneke’s Cabin (Sterling)

Proenneke’s Cabin is a historic site in Sterling, Alaska, built by hand by Dick Proenneke, a man of many trades who lived alone in the cabin for nearly 30 years. Construction began in 1968 and it took Proenneke around two years to complete. It features a log cabin with a beach stone fireplace, a raised storage shed, and a woodshed that doubles as an outhouse.

Today, the cabin is a popular tourist destination and an inspiring reminder of Proenneke’s incredible self-sufficiency. Visitors can explore the area around the cabin at any time, however entering it is only allowed during the summer months.

56. Get a Peek at the Dr. Seuss House (Talkeetna)

If you ever catch a glimpse of this quirky house in the woods outside Talkeetna, Alaska, you’ll agree that it looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Officially called the Goose Creek Tower, this 14-17 story house was originally planned to be a two-story log cabin. That is until owner Phillip Weidner decided to add more and more floors throughout the years (and still ongoing!.)

As the house is on a private, heavily-monitored property, seeing it up close is out of the picture (let alone its exact location). Luckily, its 185 feet frame stands out from the surrounding trees, making it easier to spot during a flightseeing trip in Talkeetna. It is also possible to see from Parks Highway or while riding through the Alaskan Railroad.

57. Visit the Quirky Mukluk Land (Tok)

Located 3 miles west of Tok, Alaska, Mukluk Land is a theme park built by husband and wife George and Beth Jacobs. Throughout the years, they have collected lots of Alaskan memorabilia, from busted machinery to doll collections to mini-golf and so much more. They also own the world’s largest mukluk (reindeer/sealskin soft boots). Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Mukluk Land will surely be an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

58. Witness the Alaska Bore Tide 

If you love surfing, this one’s for you! We know that Alaska is a hotbed for new adventures and experiences, and it just so happens that it is also one of the few places on Earth to see (or even surf) a tidal phenomenon called bore tides.

Simply put, bore tides are typically formed following a low tide when strong waves from the ocean’s rising water push inland against a river or a long, narrow inlet. One of the best spots to see this in action is Cook Inlet’s Turnagain Arm in Anchorage.

59. Go Through the Longest Highway Tunnel in North America – Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in North America, stretching up to 2.5 miles in length and connecting the cities of Porter and Whittier. It is built beneath Maynard Mountain and shared by cars and trains coming from both directions.

As the tunnel is one-lane only, an advanced computer system handles the traffic’s flow at regular intervals (usually switching directions every 30 mins). Vehicle turnout areas are also present along the tunnel, complete with safehouses, PA systems, and telephones, in case of emergencies.

60. See the Rock Carvings at Petroglyph Beach (Wrangall)

Petroglyph Beach is a beach near Wrangell, Alaska, famous for its rock carvings that date back 8000 years ago and are only fully revealed during low tide.

The petroglyphs were believed to be made by the Tlingit people who once called the area their home. The etchings range from what seems to be animals to geometric patterns to faces and more. Although the history and meaning behind the petroglyphs remain a mystery, it is still one of the most fascinating sights to see in Alaska.

And that’s a wrap on our Alaska Bucket List! We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about all the best places to visit and things to do in Alaska. We’ll definitely be back to check off a few more items on the list, and we hope you’ll join us! If you have any suggestions for other must-do Alaska experiences, be sure to let us know in the comments. In the meantime, happy travels!

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1 thought on “Alaska Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do & See”

Wow there is so much to see and do in Alaska!! It has been on my list to visit for a while but as it is quite difficult to access I haven’t made it yet. I think I would probably spend most of my time at the National Parks, I would love to go to Glacier Bay, Gates of the Arctic and Denali. I would also like to experience hiking on Mendenhall Glacier and I would have to do the whale watching too. I think I need months to see everything I want to see!!

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alaska

Written by Becca Blond and Brad Lane Updated Mar 18, 2024

It is hard to write about Alaska without sounding cliché. The state is simply that magnificent. A place where the landscapes and wildlife, climate, and seasonal shifts, are larger, and at times more extreme, than anywhere else in the U.S. A largely roadless, uninhabited and still very wild section of the planet, Alaska's nickname of The Last Frontier rings oh so true.

Where else can you find a state capital (Juneau) with no road access? Or a town, Barrow (its northernmost) where the sun won't rise for 67 days in winter, but during summer, doesn't set for more than 80 days? Even Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, exudes a small-town charm and is the kind of place where moose often wander downtown streets.

Alaska is home to North America's highest peak, 20,320-foot-high Denali, as well as the four largest national parks in the country. As such, it serves as a grandiose outdoor playground. Hiking, paddling, fishing, and whale spotting are a few of the many ways to enjoy these wilderness treasures. Other everyday adventures include bear watching, rainforest exploring, and taking a boat ride through the Inside Passage.

Cities and towns in Alaska offer unique cultural appeal. These basecamps for adventure have museums and other tourist attractions. And with places like the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, they also offer insight into the communities that have called Alaska home for thousands of years.

Discover the best places to visit in this ruggedly beautiful state with our list of the top attractions in Alaska.

1. Denali National Park

2. tracy arm fjord, 3. kenai fjords national park, 4. anchorage, 5. alaska highway, 6. talkeetna, 7. university of alaska museum of the north, 8. inside passage, 9. alaska railroad, 10. dalton highway, 11. alaska native heritage center, 12. mendenhall glacier, 13. wrangell-st. elias national park & preserve, 14. iditarod national historic trail, 15. brooks falls, katmai national park, 16. seward, alaska, 17. totem bight state historic park, 18. klondike gold rush national historical park, 19. alaska rainforest sanctuary, ketchikan, best time to visit alaska.

From big bears and moose to towering mountains and so much open space, Denali National Park is spectacularly beautiful and blissfully wild. If you enjoy leaving the beep of cell phone notifications behind and just getting lost in nature for a little while, this is the park to visit.

Drive to Savage River, where the 15 miles of pavement open to passenger vehicles in Denali National Park ends, and you'll really feel you are indeed in the Last Frontier. While most U.S. national parks are relatively developed, Denali, like much of Alaska itself, remains a roadless wilderness. Only one road runs through the entire park , and after Savage River, you'll need to hop into a park shuttle bus to go further on anything other than your own two feet.

The third largest national park in the U.S., located about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Denali is mostly a trail-less wilderness . Except for marked trails around the Denali Visitor Center at the entrance, hiking the park's six million acres means using a GPS device to head out in one direction and see what you encounter.

You'll need to be prepared for a backcountry experience and will want to check in at the visitor's center and leave your planned route and length of stay with a ranger then check in again when you return.

The park, which is easily accessible via the Alaska Railroad , is home North America's highest mountain , the 20,320-foot Denali. If you remember the peak by another name, it was officially referred to as Mount McKinley until 2015, when its traditional name replaced the one that modern explorers dubbed it.

The park is extremely photogenic, and the landscape here runs the gamut from wide river valleys to high alpine lakes, low-elevation taiga forest, and craggy, glacier-draped peaks.

Wild creatures abound in Denali, and it is not uncommon to see moose and even grizzly bears near the visitor center or on the side of the road. Always carry bear spray when hiking. Other animals that call this park home include wolves, reindeer, elk, and more than 167 species of bird. Another favorite among the park's many things to do is the Sled Dog Kennels , which offer demonstrations and are home to dozens of energetic huskies.

If you plan on driving here, have a read through my article Alaska Road Trip: Driving from Anchorage to Denali National Park .

Address: Milepost 240, George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm

Tracy Arm is a fjord edged with glaciers, located south of Juneau. Waterfalls tumble down the sharp rock walls, and glaciers calve, creating small icebergs. It's a popular destination for cruise ships and boat tours.

The fjord lies within the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness of Tongass National Forest . At the head of the fjord sit the twin Sawyer Glaciers . Wildlife sightings are common on tours, whether it's a brown bear or moose on land, or the whales and seals that inhabit these waters.

Tracy Arm offers just a small slice of glacier viewing in Alaska. Other tourist favorites include Glacier Bay National Park, northwest of Juneau, and Prince William Sound, near Anchorage. Several guiding companies in Juneau, like Adventure Bound Alaska , offer affordable day trips and unobstructed views of the beauty.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Juneau

Protecting much of the fjord-riddled coastline of the Kenai Peninsula (south of Anchorage), this national park offers some of the best sightseeing in Alaska. Panoramic landscapes in the park take in the many glaciers of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield and an uninhabited coastline. And the national park is home to monstrously large brown bears that feed on the fat-rich salmon.

Many tourist options converge in the surrounding areas, including the end of Highway 1 in Homer. A popular means for entry into the park is the Alaska Railroad and the Seward Highway, both ending in Seward, near the park's northern boundary. The only area in the park accessible by vehicle is Exit Glacier , where several trails offer closer views at the end of the icefield.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/kefj/index.htm

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage may be Alaska's biggest city, with a population of around 300,000 residents, but it feels a lot like a small town. The compact downtown is very walkable and feels like it hasn't changed much in the last 50 years.

It's a quirky little place, completely void of skyscrapers, that's still home to mom-and-pop shops and downhome restaurants. The kind of city where moose, and even bears, are known to wander down central streets. Anchorage summers are wonderful. Temperatures are mild and the sun doesn't set until close to midnight, and even then, it never really gets dark.

Most travelers arrive and depart Alaska via Anchorage International Airport, before heading on to other parts of the state. But the city makes a great base for day trip adventures. The outstanding Chugach State Park , encompassing nearly a half-million acres, is within easy reach of this city. For further adventures, a popular way to travel from Anchorage into the wild landscapes is via the 470-mile Alaska Railroad , which is headquartered in Anchorage.

And it's not even required to leave the city's core for adventure. A few popular city attractions include the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum. And for outdoor exploration without traveling far, head to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a stunning 11-mile bike ride. Bicycle rentals are available throughout town.

Also known as the Alaska-Canada Highway, or Alcan Highway, The Alaska Highway runs from Dawson Creek in British Columbia (Canada) through the Yukon Territory to Delta Junction near Fairbanks . It was built for military purposes in 1942, during WWII, in the record time of only eight months.

Since the end of the war, the route has been the most important means of access by land to the Yukon Territory and southern Alaska. It's also a favorite with recreational vehicle travelers. The highway passes through Whitehorse, Canada before crossing the international border into Alaska and ending in Delta Junction.

Motels, shops, and gas stations lie at intervals of 30 to 50 miles. Traveling along the Alcan Highway is generally straightforward, though commuters need to pack accordingly, as much of the route traverses through remote landscapes.

With some of the best views of Mount Denali from vistas around it, Talkeetna is a charming, eccentric little town. It is well worth a visit if you are driving or taking the train between Anchorage and Denali National Park.

If you want to have a meeting with Talkeetna's mayor, you'll need to head to Nagley's General Store and ask for Aurora. She can be quite moody, although she's always open to food bribes. Just don't bring a dog along when you visit, she snarled and hissed and threw this writer's Chihuahua right out of her domain. If you are getting lost with the plot at this point, we'll fill you in: Aurora is a cat.

Talkeetna doesn't have a human mayor but is on its third feline leader. The town's original, and most famous, kitty mayor was Stubbs, who ruled with an iron paw from 1997 to 2017 when he passed away.

Rumor also has it that Talkeetna was the inspiration behind the 90s TV show, Northern Exposure , although the series itself was filmed in Washington. It is a mostly seasonal destination with most of the dozens of restaurants and shops lining its two-street downtown open only between mid-May and mid-September.

Talkeetna is also a popular place to book flight-seeing tours . These take place in small planes that fly you around or over the summit of Denali, depending on the weather. Some tours even land on a glacier. Check out K2 Aviation Talkeetna or Talkeetna Air Taxi, both in town, to arrange a trip.

Located in Fairbanks, the University of Alaska Museum of the North offers more than one million historical artifacts and natural history pieces. The permanent collection includes ethnological items made and used by indigenous groups and a fine arts collection that focuses mainly on Alaskan art .

The collection also features archaeological finds from prehistoric cultures, an assemblage of birds, and several paleontology specimens. The building that houses the museum is also noteworthy. It was designed by Joan Soranno, and the white structure has interesting lines and curves intended to resemble the Alaskan landscape.

The museum is free for students and faculty of the university, and the public is welcome with paid admission. Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum at their own pace, and larger groups can call ahead to book a customizable tour experience.

Address: 1962 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, Alaska

Official site: http://www.uaf.edu/museum/

The Inside Passage is a collection of sheltered channels and straits in Southeast Alaska. The most popular way to visit is to cruise through the fjords on large ships, charter boats, and private yachts. Another option is to stop off the highway at Haines , Skagway , or Hyder .

Along the coastal passage, the Tongass National Forest covers 17 million acres and includes islands, mountains, glaciers, ice fields, fjords, and waterfalls. Included in the forest is Prince of Wales Island , one of the largest islands in the US. The area is also inhabited by the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

Major towns along the route include Skagway , with its Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park ; the once-chief town of Russian America Sitka ; and Ketchikan , where stoic totems are on display at both Totem Bight State Historic Park and the Totem Heritage Center .

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/tongass/

Noted as the "Backbone of the Last Frontier," the Alaska Railroad is a prominent part of Alaska's history and still a vital transportation option. Extending from Seward to Fairbanks , this railroad helped develop Anchorage from a tent town into what it is today, and the line played an important shipping role in World War II.

Today, the Alaska Railroad is owned by the state and shuttles more than 500,000 passengers each year. Popular destinations along the route include the Chugach National Forest, Anchorage, and Denali National Park & Preserve . The Alaska Railroad offers a variety of routes, services, and special event rides including backcountry ski packages and a kids' Halloween Train.

Official site: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/

The Dalton Highway stretches over 400 miles into Alaska's Far North region, eventually reaching the outpost of Prudhoe Bay . It's accessible from Fairbanks and Anchorage and built adjacent and in conjunction with the Trans-Alaska Pipeline . The road is extremely remote, rugged, and not well-traveled outside of oil-field workers.

Well-prepared sightseers have an incentive to navigate the lonely highway, though, with both Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge lining the roadside.

At the northern end of the route, the Dalton Highway crosses into the Arctic Circle , where the summer solstice brings 24 hours of daylight and the winter means 24 hours of darkness. Driving a personal vehicle isn't the only choice to experience the Arctic Circle, and frequent bus and plane tours depart from Fairbanks and Anchorage.

A popular reason to visit this northern latitude is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights , which appear on many nights from September to Mid-April. Joining an aurora tour can help keep sightseers warm in this frigid season.

Offering more than just a look into the lives and values of Alaska's 11 major cultural groups, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides hands-on interaction with music, people, and art. Alongside interpretive information, the Heritage Center is a place to visit to connect with the community and participate in programs and events.

The Heritage Center is just outside Anchorage. It includes The Gathering Place for Alaska Native dancing and storytelling and the Hall of Cultures , filled with exhibits and local vendors displaying handmade crafts and works of art.

The scenic Lake Tiulana is also on the grounds, surrounded by traditional dwellings of Alaska Natives. Though this sightseeing attraction is located out of downtown, there is a summer-season shuttle from the modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage

Official site: http://www.alaskanative.net/

Twelve miles northwest of the state capital and accessible by road, the Mendenhall Glacier snakes down from the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Icefield to touch the shores of a small lake. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center looks out over both the glacier and the iceberg-dotted waters, while trails venture along the shore to roaring Nugget Falls , as well as the impressive ice mass.

Rafting and kayaking trips allow visitors to float among the bergs. Wildlife such as black bears, porcupines, and beavers are commonly spotted while exploring this dazzling blue landscape. Arguably the best season to visit is between May and October, where sunshine is more likely to be on the forecast. However, the glacier is also fun to visit on rainy days, as the ice takes on a different hue of blue.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve is the largest and most magnificent of Alaska's sprawling national parks -- it is also the largest national park in the U.S. This grandiose mountain region has nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States. Other defining features of this park bordering Canada include glaciers, lakes, mountain streams, and a rich variety of wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias is a superb country for climbers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. And the park's Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark gives insight into the one-time mill town with barely preserved heritage buildings and abandoned mines.

Other points of interest include a selection of 14 backcountry cabins, many of which are only accessible by flying into remote airstrips.

Address: Mile 106.8 Old Richardson Highway, Copper Center, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm

The Iditarod National Historic Trail is Alaska's only National Scenic Trail. It consists of a network of trails totaling more than 2,300 miles between Nome, on the Bering Strait, and Seward, near Anchorage. Originally used by ancient hunters and later by gold prospectors, the trail is now used, and best known, for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race .

Extensive landscapes surround the entire route, offering beautiful views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Although it is primarily a winter trail, hikers do use sections during the summer months including the popular Crow Pass Trail within Chugach State Park.

Official site: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/national-scenic-and-historic-trails/iditarod

Brooks Falls, in Katmai National Park, is synonymous with brown bears. That's because starting in June and peaking in July, spawning salmon travel the Brooks River and attract the park's largest mammals in droves. Today, elevated platforms around the falls enable some of the best wildlife viewings in the country.

Brooks Falls and Katmai National Park are on the Alaskan Peninsula, which extends from the southwest mainland. The only two feasible ways to reach the park are by plane or by boat. Often, visitors book an all-in-one vacation package to experience the falls, but it's not required. Several aviation companies also offer simple shuttle services to the park.

The journey to Seward is equally as alluring as the small town itself. To reach the community from Anchorage, visitors travel by way of the Seward Highway . This All-American Road spans 127 miles through pristine Alaska landscapes. The first 50 miles from Anchorage traverse along Turnagain Arm and the southern boundary of Chugach State Park . Here, roadside views include mountains, glaciers, and the occasional beluga whale surfacing.

Tourists can also take the scenic Alaska Railroad, which follows the same route from Anchorage to Seward. The Alaska Railroad also continues much farther north than Anchorage, ending its line in Fairbanks.

Besides a beautiful commute, Seward also has several appealing cultural attractions like the Alaska Sealife Center . The city is also a home base for exploring the Kenai Peninsula, including nearby landscapes like Exit Glacier . Departing from Kenai Peninsula, avid wildlife watchers head to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge , established to protect the Kodiak bear and other rare animals.

Official site: http://www.seward.com/

In 1938, the US Forest Services began a project to salvage, reconstruct, and create totem poles - a tradition that was dying out. Funds were used to hire carvers from among the older generations and abandoned totem poles were restored or recreated by these craftsmen. In the process of this work, they were able to pass on their skills to younger community members.

Fifteen poles were erected in Ketchikan's Totem Bight State Historic Park, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places . Also on the site is a recreated clan house from the early 19th century. There are more heritage totem poles and local details available at the town's Totem Heritage Center .

Address: Ketchikan Ranger Station, 9883 North Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska

Official site: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/totembgh.htm

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park maintains lovely, restored buildings in the Skagway historic district to commemorate the 1897-98 Gold Rush. Visitors can attempt to hike the 33-mile-long Chilkoot Trail , which begins at Taiya River Bridge and pays homage to the path and struggles of past gold seekers. Visitors can also spend time exploring the on-site museum and visitor center.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway leaves from Skagway, climbing up to White Pass at a 2,865-foot elevation. The depot, one of Alaska's oldest, houses the visitor center.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm

Ketchikan is a wild city bordering Tongass National Forest and facing the famous Inside Passage. The city is perhaps best known for its many Native American totem poles throughout the town and at places like Totem Bight State Historical Park . But it's also a city surrounded by dense, unaltered Alaska landscapes.

A lush temperate rainforest defines much of the natural landscape around Ketchikan. This includes rushing waterways, miles of verdant mountainsides, and an array of weather conditions that often require boots. One of the easiest ways to experience this dense environment is with a guided tour at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary.

Kawanti Adventures oversees the 40 acres of this forest sanctuary just outside of town and offers guided tours. These approximately three-hour tours go beyond the usual hiking experience and include a narrative guide with interesting tidbits about the local history and culture. These tours also include stops at interpretive exhibits, like a historic sawmill and totem park.

From the snowy winter months to the more temperate summer months, each one of Alaska's unique seasons has its own particular draw. But the best time to visit Alaska is between mid-June and mid-August . If you wanted to push it a bit on either end of that span, most tourist resorts, tours, and cruises begin operations mid-May and end mid-September, so you'll find some good weather then as well - it just won't be as reliable.

The high tourist season, which runs from June to August , is when most attractions and parks open up to the public. If you have an Alaskan bucket list - such as wildlife viewing in Denali National Park or witnessing the salmon runs - this is the best time to visit Alaska.

Tip: Even if you visit during the summer months, weather systems can blow in on a moment's notice, so be prepared to dress in layers and have a raincoat handy. With that said, summer temperatures can also reach highs of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure to pack hot-weather clothing as well.

More on Alaska

Anchorage   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Blue Poppy | Getty Images

17 Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage's proximity to the great outdoors is the most obvious reason to stay and play in the city. Budget-conscious travelers will be pleased to find Anchorage hosts numerous fascinating and family-friendly attractions that don't cost a

• All Things To Do

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Tony Knowles Coastal Trail free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Looking for a less urban ride or walk? Start your trail experience at Kincaid Park like most Anchorage residents. Keep an eye out for eagles, moose and bears along the way. – Erin Kirkland

Named for former Alaska Gov. Tony Knowles, who spearheaded the project, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is an 11-mile out-and-back paved trail winding its way from downtown Anchorage south to Kincaid Park.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk the property during your visit, and be sure to stop by the gazebo overlooking the end of Turnagain Arm to capture the full essence of the center. You may even see beluga whales during the tide changes. – Erin Kirkland

Located about 50 miles south of Anchorage at the end of scenic Turnagain Arm, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a 200-acre facility housing animals and birds no longer able to survive in the wild. Open all year, visitors can be assured of seeing Alaska's most popular wild critters; black and brown bears, wolves, moose, musk ox, lynx, foxes and a herd of wood bison.

Alaska Native Heritage Center Alaska Native Heritage Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Be sure to allow plenty of time for visiting each of the village sites surrounding the center's Lake Tiulana, and stop to talk with the Alaska Native youth at each. – Erin Kirkland

What makes Alaska truly unique are the traditional cultures that have thrived there for centuries. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a unique indoor and outdoor facility offering hands-on information and experiences that showcase both the modern and historical ways of life among the state's First People.

Popular Tours

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

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26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

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Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

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Potter Marsh Potter Marsh free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the boardwalk early in the morning or in the evening hours, when wildlife are most active. Remember to be bear and moose aware at all times. – Erin Kirkland

At the southern end of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge is Potter Marsh, a wooden boardwalk that winds through a half-mile of rich, productive marshlands and offers stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. This is a popular destination for birders, as Arctic terns, northern pintails, trumpeter swans, canvasback ducks, red-necked phalaropes, horned and red-necked grebes, and bald eagles come to this wetland to feed and nest between mid-April to mid-October. Keep an eye out for eagles and their nests, usually located high in the cottonwood trees near the base of the eastern edge of the marsh.

Alaska Railroad Alaska Railroad

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visiting in the fall? The Hurricane Turn Train (daytrip) travels through the colorful forests of Alaska's Interior for amazing photographs. It's also a great way to meet Alaskans traveling to and from their remote homestead cabins. – Erin Kirkland

In a city raised with the birth of its railroad system, it should come as no surprise that Anchorage's historic train depot marks the gateway to further Alaska adventures. The Alaska Railroad Corporation hauls freight and passengers, and is considered one of the best Alaska tours by travelers and critics alike. Utilizing a north-south rail line stretching almost 600 miles between Seward and Fairbanks , the Alaska Railroad offers several itineraries that take passengers through some of the most scenic landscapes in the state. Whether passing through mountains, along coastline or through the meadows of Alaska, visitors will hear narration from local guides and helpful tips to spot wildlife.

Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by the museum's "Lunch on the Lawn" events on Tuesday afternoons June through August for music and food trucks. – Erin Kirkland

Alaska's largest museum provides a thorough introduction to the people, industries and vivid history of this fascinating land. Spanning four floors of temporary and permanent exhibitions, hands-on learning and beautiful art, the museum is fully-accessible and open every day during the summer months.

Chugach State Park Chugach State Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Eklutna Lake makes an excellent full-day adventure in Chugach State Park. You can also rent mountain bikes and kayaks from a third-party vendor right on the lakeshore. –  Erin Kirkland

Chugach State Park is the third-largest state park in the nation (the first, Wood-Tikchik, is also located in Alaska), clocking in at nearly half a million acres of hiking trails, skiing terrain, rock-climbing spots and wildlife habitat. Chugach is the perfect place to experience untouched Alaska without a long drive – the park's breathtaking scenery is within a 20-minute drive of downtown Anchorage.

Matanuska Glacier Matanuska Glacier free

The mighty Matanuska Glacier is located about 95 miles northeast of Anchorage along the scenic Glenn Highway, and is the largest glacier in Alaska accessible by car. It's also one of the oldest glaciers, spanning 4 miles across and 13,000 feet high, and is easily seen from the highway, making it a popular stop.

Visitors may stop and view the glacier from the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site, where picnic tables and a short trail are offered for day use. Parking is free for up to 30 minutes at the recreation site; after that there is a $5 charge. To actually walk upon the glacier, however, one must go to Glacier Park, a private-use site that charges admission to access the ice. It's worth it though, to be able to trek upon the frozen surface and see the ice caves and deep blue pools. Only certified vendors are allowed to guide hikes upon the glacier due to safety reasons, and several will transport visitors from Anchorage, year-round. Salmon Berry Travel & Tours is a well-reviewed company that offers guided glacier hikes. Guided hike or climbing fees vary depending upon the experience, but range from $40 per person to $300 per person. Previous visitors to the glacier have enjoyed the guided treks upon the glacier and the "Glaciology 101" information provided by the knowledgeable guides.

Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

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Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour

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Grand Knik Helicopter Tour - 2 hours 3 landings - ANCHORAGE AREA

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Portage Glacier Portage Glacier

Many years ago, Portage Glacier stretched all the way to where the Seward Highway sits today. Today, the glacier's remnant is beautiful Portage Valley, a 14-mile isthmus connecting the Kenai Peninsula to mainland Southcentral Alaska.

The Chugach National Forest manages the land of Portage Valley and Glacier, and visitors traveling between Seward, Whittier and Anchorage can be treated to outdoor recreation and information about this unique and wild landscape just 55 miles southeast of Anchorage.

Spencer Glacier Spencer Glacier

If retreating into Alaska's backcountry appeals to you, but you don't have a lot of time, gear or experience to make it happen, the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop trip aboard the Alaska Railroad may be for you.

Departing from the Anchorage, Girdwood or Portage depots, travelers who board the Glacier Discovery train will be transported into the Chugach National Forest and beautiful, icy Spencer Lake, its namesake glacier looming in the background.

Alaska Botanical Garden Alaska Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Guided tours of the garden are a great way to become familiar with Alaska’s native plants, and it’s worth the cost to have a personal guide for your visit. – Erin Kirkland

Nestled in 110 acres of boreal forest, the Alaska Botanical Garden features 150 native plant species and more than 1,100 perennials. There is an herb garden, a wildflower trail, two perennial gardens and the Anchorage Heritage Garden, which was completed in the summer of 2015 and is filled with native plants that were grown from local seeds.

Alaska Aviation Museum Alaska Aviation Museum

Of all industries, aviation has played the largest role in Alaska's development; before there were roads, there were airstrips upon beaches, gravel and even meadows. At the Alaska Aviation Museum, visitors can garner an up-close look at the importance of aircraft in both civilian and military uses, in all areas of the state. Travelers will also learn about bush flying, famous Alaska pilots and Alaska's role in World War II.

Four hangars and an outdoor yard make up the bulk of the museum space, and a restoration hangar is well worth a stop to observe volunteers who spend their time restoring the aircraft back into the shape they once were. Don't miss the tower cab along the shores of Lake Hood as well, where you can go upstairs to hear live air traffic controller traffic as planes navigate the Lake Hood Seaplane Base all day long.

Kincaid Park Kincaid Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by the Kincaid Chalet, where helpful Anchorage Parks and Recreation staff can provide tips on accessing favorite trails suitable for your area of interest, time frame and abilities. – Erin Kirkland

Kincaid Park is an ideal destination for those looking to escape to the wilderness without leaving Anchorage. Overlooking Cook Inlet from the city's southwest corner, this 1,400-acre park is home to dozens of hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, gardens and wildlife like moose, black and brown bears, foxes and porcupines. Trails are kept in shape thanks to year-round use, and a disc golf course can be played through the western side of the park.

Viator Exclusive: Go eBike Alaska on Tony Knowles Trail

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Anchorage Trolley Tour

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Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage

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Lake Hood Lake Hood free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Do what locals do and finish up your walk or bike ride at the Lakefront Anchorage's outdoor deck for a meal and drinks. – Erin Kirkland

As Anchorage grew in the 1940s, air travel in and out of Anchorage was starting to ramp up, with both commercial and private aircraft taking up airspace in the skies around the city. Recognizing the need for separate landing areas, the state of Alaska joined two local lakes near the Anchorage airport, Spenard and Hood, by a single channel, thus enabling small aircraft to utilize water access for summertime float use. By the 1950s, work crews had built a seaplane complex, new gravel airstrip and installed an air control tower, and the buzz of aircraft coming and going became one of Anchorage's most notable features.

The Alaska Zoo The Alaska Zoo

If the thought of running into some of Alaska's wild creatures in their natural habitat makes you nervous, visit them (safely) at The Alaska Zoo. The facility, located in Anchorage's Hillside neighborhood, features animals and birds of the circumpolar north, and participates in the rescue of injured or abandoned creatures around the state that need a place to heal. The zoo itself is small, but the woodsy trails are perfectly aligned with the natural theme of the property, and the animals – including moose, bears, seals, mountain goats, Amur tigers and Bactrian camels, among others – are easily viewed by any age or ability. 

Previous visitors described the zoo as small, but said a stop here is a great way to see animals you have missed in the wild. Reviewers reported spending about an hour here.

Anchorage Market Anchorage Market free

A local favorite since it first opened in 1992, the Anchorage Market and Festival started out as a Saturday-only market with just two dozen vendors, but it quickly grew to host up to 100 vendors and now operates Saturdays and Sundays mid-May to mid-September. Formerly located downtown, the market shifted its base of operations to south Anchorage after the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular with residents and visitors alike, it is the place to shop for clothes, food, crafts and more while enjoying live entertainment and snacking on locally-grown eats. There's also a kids market suitable for ages 8 to 17 that sells goods crafted by other youngsters.

Recent travelers reported finding unique items to buy and praised the delicious food, but others said it's not worth going out of your way to visit. 

Alaska Center for the Performing Arts Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

A staple in the Anchorage arts scene since 1998, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts (or the PAC, as it is locally known) is the place to go in Anchorage when you want to catch a play, show, musical or concert. Conveniently located adjacent to Town Square Park and featuring three theaters of varying sizes, the center hosts performances that range from local favorite storytelling event "Arctic Entries" to Broadway shows like "Hamilton" and "Six The Musical."

Past visitors praised the variety of performances here and the acoustics of the venues.

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Skip The Heat In The 7 Coldest Cities In The U.S. This Summer

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• Escape the summer heat by exploring cold cities like Duluth, Portland, and Fairbanks to avoid fatigue from sweltering temps.
• Discover scenic spots and wildlife sanctuaries in cities like Fairbanks and Port Angeles to enjoy cooler temperatures during summer.
• From San Francisco to Eureka, explore Victorian architecture and outdoor activities in cities with average high temperatures below 80°F.

The change of season brings an interesting twist to one's travel habits and needs. During winter, tourists yearn to vacation in warmer destinations to escape the biting cold. Come summer, the need to escape the scorching hot weather rises.

However, even the top travel destinations in the US that every traveler dreams of visiting at least once can be uncomfortable to explore during summer due to the sweltering temperatures. According to a heat index from the National Weather Service , places with temperatures exceeding 80°F cause fatigue after prolonged exposure or physical activities, making touring experiences unbearable.

Thankfully, some of the most popular and visited US cities have colder summers, where their temperatures don’t surpass 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The cities are either nestled at the base of majestic mountains, along the coast, or in regions that receive less heat, allowing tourists to escape the unforgiving summer heat. Here are some of the coldest cities to visit in the US during summer.

7 Cool Places to Escape A Historically Hot Long Island Summer

NOAA has predicted an incoming heat wave for the Northeast this summer 2024—discover places where New Yorkers can beat the heat.

7 Duluth, Minnesota

Average high temperature during summer: 60 to 78 degrees fahrenheit.

Duluth’s proximity to Lake Superior, the coldest of the Great Lakes, makes it one of the best cities in the US to escape the summer heat. The massive lake acts as a heat sink, plus the easterly winds help with cooling during summer, ensuring holidaymakers are comfortable when exploring the city’s scenic spots.

One of the best things to do in Duluth during summer is visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium , a freshwater-focused aquarium situated in the harbor of Lake Superior. The family-friendly destination is home to hundreds of different species found in the Great Lakes and other marine habitats around the world.

Leif Erikson Park , a massive greenspace, is another incredible spot to explore for free outdoor movies every Friday during summer, take scenic walks, or enjoy the colorful flower displays at the Rose Garden.

6 Portland, Maine

Average high temperature during summer: 62 to 78 degrees fahrenheit.

History and breathtaking coastal beauty draw avid travelers to the bustling city of Portland, Maine. However, there’s more to this destination, as vacationers discover a perfect spot to enjoy a break from the unbearable heat of some of the hottest places in the US during summer . The city's cooler temperatures during mid-summer allow adventurers to explore Portland’s iconic landmarks during a one-of-a-kind train ride from the historic Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad.

While on board, travelers soak in gorgeous Casco Bay views as a conductor narrates the intriguing history of the railroad, city, and sights situated along the route. Embarking on this trip is one of the best family activities travelers can enjoy when seeking a sightseeing educational experience. However, lovebirds who want a romantic experience can enjoy the Sunset Express ride offered on summer Saturday evenings from June through August.

7 Waterfront Towns That Will Make You Forget You're In Alaska This Summer

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5 Fairbanks, Alaska

Average high temperature during summer: 54 to 73 degrees fahrenheit.

Nestled in the heart of Alaska is Fairbanks, a unique destination known for displaying the stunning aurora borealis. Despite being inland, Fairbanks experiences mild summer temperatures, providing an ideal environment to explore the city’s wealth of attractions, starting with the scenic Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary .

Armed with binoculars and comfortable walking shoes, nature lovers explore the sanctuary’s easy nature trails winding through a lush forest and past a pristine lake. Along the way, visitors spot snowshoe hares, foxes, and flying squirrels, plus some of the over 100 bird species, including kingfishers, ducks, cranes, and geese. Besides the abundant wildlife, the sanctuary is a popular spot for watching the northern lights from August through April.

4 Port Angeles, Washington

Average high temperature during summer: 53 to 71 degrees fahrenheit.

Summers in Port Angeles are cooler as the Pacific Ocean moderates the area’s climate. The city’s mild temperatures make it a perfect destination to escape from the unforgiving summer heat and enjoy outdoor activities. A must-do while in Port Angeles is to explore the sprawling Olympic National Park, which features easy hikes for hikers of all ages .

The park protects a vast wilderness with diverse landscapes, including rocky alpine slopes, interconnected rivers and lakes, lush, ancient forests, and glacier-capped summits rising from the shimmering ocean.

For a first-hand and immersive experience of exploring this untamed wilderness, outdoor lovers embark on a hiking adventure to Mount Storm King. A challenging 4.1-mile trail leads hikers through the park’s giant evergreens to a summit boasting expansive mountain, forest, and lake vistas.

3 San Francisco, California

Average high temperature during summer: 60 to 70 degrees fahrenheit.

San Francisco witnesses a surge in tourism during summer despite the scorching sun blazing across most cities and towns in California. The Golden City experiences a unique climate, which can be attributed to meteorological and geographical factors. Its setting near the Pacific Ocean provides a marine layer that keeps temperatures between 60 and 70°F during mid-summer, requiring people to dress accordingly for potential fog when exploring the city.

Due to the city’s popularity in summer, budget travelers can take advantage of the free things to do in San Francisco to avoid the notable increase in prices the season brings. A bucket list adventure for many is visiting the Golden Gate Bridge , an iconic worldwide landmark where adventurers can bike, hike, shop, or relax to soak in its magnificence. Taking guided city tours also allows tourists to discover more of San Francisco.

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2 Anchorage, Alaska

Average high temperature during summer: 55 to 68 degrees fahrenheit.

Alaska is the coldest state in the United States , so it’s no surprise that two of its major cities are the perfect destinations to escape the heat this summer. Besides experiencing harsh winters, summers in Anchorage tend to be cooler, with temperatures staying in the low 70s, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, the surrounding mountains, as the city is set at the base of the stunning Chugach Mountains, help keep the scorching temperatures at bay.

The mentioned mountains are the perfect playground for outdoor lovers, offering access to top hikes like the Flattop Mountain Trail . Although there are some rock scrambling sections to the top, this popular hike leads to a summit offering breathtaking views of Anchorage’s city skyline, Cook Inlet, and more. There are a lot of things to do in Anchorage besides hiking, like learning about Indigenous cultures, exploring its downtown, viewing wildlife, and more.

1 Eureka, California

Average high temperature during summer: 52 to 64 degrees fahrenheit.

Eureka is a beautiful Northern California city known for its unique Victorian architecture. Located along the Pacific Ocean, this city boasts a maritime climate that ensures notably cool and consistent summers, with temperatures ranging from 52 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit. This stands in contrast to the much hotter conditions experienced in nearby cities, making Eureka a perfect destination to enjoy a refreshing summer retreat.

There’s a lot to explore in this port city, starting with its charming Old Town district with well-preserved Victorian-era buildings housing eateries such as the Café Waterfront . While food lovers sample seafood at the café, nature lovers can explore the 60-acre Sequoia Park Garden , featuring scenic trails meandering through a majestic redwood forest.

What if the NFL expanded to 100 teams? Barnwell picks ideal cities

Sometimes, the best ideas come from inside the ESPN offices. Last week in Bristol, Connecticut, I was talking to an editor about the long-departed Hartford Whalers and how they originally found their place in the NHL. "If you were starting the NHL today, you probably wouldn't put a team in Hartford," the editor said offhand.

That got me thinking about an idea I've kicked around for a long time. In England, a country roughly the size of Ohio, there are 92 professional clubs across the first five divisions of their soccer pyramid. (A couple of those teams are Welsh, to be fair.) This past season alone, seven of 20 teams in the top-flight Premier League were in London. Two play in Liverpool , with massive stadiums a 20-minute walk away from each other. By the bottom of the professional pyramid, stadium capacities drop down to a couple of thousand, but you get the idea: There are a lot of teams in a very small area.

In America, things have evolved differently. While minor league baseball has spread out across the country, those teams aren't independent. There's no promotion and relegation. Teams leave their local fans and move to another city or even another coast without repercussions. Franchises have been granted the rights to their cities and push back if anyone moves into their territory. Leagues expanded and contracted during much of the 20th century, but as they have become multibillion-dollar industries, the four major American men's sports have turned into closed shops, with the NFL as the most prominent example. The league hasn't admitted a new member since the Houston Texans in 2002, leaving dozens of football-loving cities out of professional football.

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We can't fix all of that, but we can imagine something better. Let's say a lawsuit opened up the league for business and prevented the NFL from limiting itself to 32 teams. If England can support 92 professional soccer teams, America can do better. In a universe in which the league didn't retain the right to keep new members out, how many professional teams could the U.S. support? Could it be 100? And if so, where would those teams go?

I'm going to explore that universe and find homes for 100 professional football teams across America. I'm not going to focus on promotion and relegation, how the schedule would work or how the play on the field might evolve, but I'll instead focus strictly on where these teams would play. Let's lay out some ground rules and the logic I used in trying to make this work:

No NFL teams are disappearing as part of this exercise. The 32 existing franchises are sticking around. As part of the new 100-team league, though, several will need to make decisions about where they play versus where they represent. Teams that have stadiums outside the area they purport to represent will either need to move to where they're supposed to be or change their name and let someone else move in to take their place.

No team holds any territorial rights. If someone wants to finance a professional team in Fort Worth, Texas, and compete for the hearts of Dallas-area fans, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones can't do anything about it.

New cities and franchises were selected on a variety of factors. New teams are going to want as many fans as possible, so my first priority was finding places that had large population centers. I also considered whether each city had access to an existing football stadium and/or had a history of supporting football.

Fans aren't going to change their allegiances overnight. At the same time, while there might be some fans in Fort Worth who would become fans of a new franchise, most people who have spent their life rooting for the Cowboys aren't suddenly about to change their mind. I tried to be realistic about how adding a team to each area might impact fandom, and how saturated a market is with fans for each team. I was more aggressive putting new franchises next to each other as opposed to putting a new franchise next to an already-successful team.

As an example, Milwaukee obviously has more than enough of a population to support its own NFL team, given that the city has more than 560,000 people who already root for the NBA's Bucks . Would it make sense to put a team there as part of this top-100 group? With the Packers having already put down roots just over 100 miles away and establishing themselves as Milwaukee's team, it would be incredibly difficult for a Milwaukee-based franchise to establish itself. In New York, on the other hand, there are simply so many people that the Giants and Jets might not be enough.

There's some crossover happening between college and pro football. In real life, the lines between college and pro football have been blurred by the impact of NIL money . Perhaps the lines are blurred further in this 100-team league. I'm not suggesting Alabama , Notre Dame and Penn State are going to field NFL teams, but putting pro teams in their respective locales might make some sense, especially because they have existing stadiums.

I've included a number of college cities as potential landing spots for teams here, although I've left others out if there's a notable NFL team nearby. Do they exist as a hybrid team with professional status and the history of the college football team? Are they a smaller franchise that relies upon the existing fan base of the school and probably focuses on signing alumni of that college in free agency? I'll let you decide.

In the end, I found 68 new teams to join the existing 32 to make 100 professional football franchises. Regions can overlap and have murky definitions, so don't get too attached to where each team lands, but I've separated the country into a handful of sections and will address our new additions spot by spot. Let's begin in the football hotbed of America: Texas is way too big for just two teams, but how many more could we add?

Jump to a region: California | Florida | Mid-Atlantic Mid-South | Midwest | New York/New Jersey Noncontiguous states | Northeast | Pac. Northwest Southeast | Southwest | Texas | West See the 100-team map

Texas (9 total teams)

NFL teams that already exist: Dallas Cowboys , Houston Texans

We'll throw Jerry Jones' family a bone here. While they're going to be prevented from suing to try to keep most of Texas for themselves, we won't put another team in Fort Worth or Arlington to try to compete with the Cowboys. Likewise, the Texans will retain Houston, America's fourth-most populous city, entirely for itself. Instead, we're placing six new teams around different parts of the state, many of which are several hours away from any of the others.

San Antonio : Already the most populous city in the country without an NFL team, San Antonio is 200 miles from Houston and 285 miles from Dallas, leaving a large area of potential fans to try to add. The city already rabidly supports its Spurs , and it already used the Alamodome to house teams in various spring football leagues, most recently the Brahmas of the UFL . Among cities that haven't housed NFL teams in the past, San Antonio is easily the best expansion candidate.

Austin : The capital city has rapidly grown in recent years with an influx of tech workers from out of state, leaving the potential for a new team to win the hearts and minds of Austinites. The city recently landed its first professional men's team, Austin FC in Major League Soccer, and already has a 100,000-plus seat stadium in place for the University of Texas .

Waco : Between Austin and Dallas on I-35, Waco might be just far enough from either city to justify another team in this football-obsessed state. There's already a significant stadium on site for Baylor in McLane Stadium. I struggled to pick between Waco and College Station as a potential option here; Waco being a larger metro area helped it make the 100. College Station will be on our list for expansion when we make this the 150.

Corpus Christi : In trying to spread teams around the state, identifying Corpus Christi as a potential franchise for south Texas makes sense. San Antonio also qualifies as southern Texas, but Corpus Christi is more than two hours south of its neighbor and has a population of more than 300,000 people in its own right. It already supports a minor league team for the Astros .

Lubbock : Moving further west in this sprawling state, there's a window for a team once we get several hundred miles outside of Dallas. Amarillo might have been a viable choice, but Lubbock is farther away from some of the other cities we're adding to the 100; it has a population of more than 200,000, and there's already an existing stadium for Texas Tech .

Odessa : It seems only fitting to give Lubbock a local rival in Odessa, about 140 miles to the south down US-87. Odessa might be more famously remembered as the town depicted in " Friday Night Lights ," and its stadium houses both the Odessa and Permian high school teams. While Odessa would be one of the smallest markets in our top 100 by population, I'm counting on the area's passion for football shining through.

El Paso : Our final addition from Texas, the border city would be closer to some new rivals in other Southwest states than to its other rivals in the Lone Star state. As the league courts fans in Mexico by playing games in Mexico City and having teams visit Monterrey, a worldwide expansion would likely include at least one team in Mexico, if not more. With our goal to place 100 teams in the United States, though, El Paso is as close as this project comes to landing a team in Mexico itself.

Southwest (5)

NFL teams that already exist: Arizona Cardinals , Las Vegas Raiders

Phoenix was the only city with an NFL team in this rapidly growing part of the country before the Raiders moved to Vegas in 2020. I'd argue Vegas might be able to support a second team given how new the Raiders are to town, but there's no shortage of potential candidates in the Southwest for professional football teams. You could add Oklahoma in here if you consider it part of the Southwest, and its teams would have natural rivalries with Texas, but I'm sticking them in the Mid-South area instead.

Reno, Nevada : More than 400 miles northwest of Vegas, Reno might have more of a rivalry with the Northern California teams in our 100 than its in-state competitors. The University of Nevada already has a stadium, and Reno has supported a Triple-A baseball team, so there's sporting infrastructure in town. The lure of Vegas has helped its various teams add free agents, but what about Tahoe?

Albuquerque, New Mexico : A natural rival for the teams in West Texas, Albuquerque is one of the larger metros in the Western United States without a professional sports team, although the Triple-A Isotopes led the Pacific Coast League in average attendance last year. Playing more than 5,000 feet above sea level would give Albuquerque a built-in competitive advantage, something that has helped the Broncos during their time in the NFL.

Tucson, Arizona : A local derby with Phoenix? Tucson is closer than most of our other new additions around already-existing NFL teams, as you can make the 113-mile trip between the two cities in less than two hours if traffic's right. With more than 500,000 people, though, it has a large enough base to support its own team. The indoor team is called the Sugar Skulls, which is a name that probably wouldn't fly with the NFL and absolutely would stick around in our league.

Mid-South (7)

NFL teams that already exist: New Orleans Saints

On one hand, this is a tough area to address. It's tough to imagine anybody in Louisiana not rooting for the Saints , and if you go much farther west, you end up in Texans country. Get out of the Bayou and go farther north, though, and there are a handful of cities that could produce rivals for the Saints, including a race for the rights to I-55:

Memphis, Tennessee : A popular pick for spring leagues over the past 25 years, Memphis is far enough away from Nashville and has an entirely different identity as a city. The Titans will certainly have picked up some fans in Tennessee after moving from Houston in 1997, but if you've seen the way Memphis supports the Grizzlies , you can imagine what that would look like in football form. An entire stadium of fans chanting " Whoop that trick? " A stadium in the shadows of the Bass Pro Shops pyramid ? I'm excited. There's another new Tennessee team on the way as well, although it's in a different section.

Jackson, Mississippi : Between Memphis and New Orleans, there's a window for Mississippi to get its first major professional sports team. There's enough of a football interest statewide to support multiple SEC teams and Jackson State on Saturdays, so would a professional football team unite Ole Miss and Mississippi State fans for three hours on Sundays? Probably not, but there's enough of a population base for a fun three-way rivalry with Memphis and New Orleans.

Shreveport, Louisiana : While I did say I can't imagine anyone in Louisiana not rooting for the Saints, the exception among major cities there would be in the northwest, where Shreveport is closer to Dallas and more commonly associated with the Cowboys. In some places, a rivalry between two popular NFL teams might allow a new team to capitalize off of already-existing passions. This could be Texarkana's team.

Little Rock, Arkansas : Arkansas is another state getting its first major professional team, as the capital would form a box of potential local opponents alongside Memphis, Jackson and Shreveport. You could argue Fayetteville is the focal point of football in the state and should get the state's new team instead, but we're also going to add another team about 100 miles to the west that could steal away some of its support (Tulsa).

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma : OKC might be on the shortlist for potential NFL expansion sites in the real world given the city's population, affinity for football and support for the Thunder once they arrived in town in 2008. It's an easy pick, regardless of which division it ends up participating in.

Tulsa, Oklahoma : Yes, our league can support two new Oklahoma teams just over 100 miles apart. There's a 30,000-seat stadium in town for the Golden Hurricane , and the natural rivalry with Oklahoma City would produce an instantly exciting matchup for Oklahomans. Tulsa could also pick up some fans in Northwest Arkansas and Southern Missouri, although it might be tough to convince the latter to give up rooting for the Chiefs until Patrick Mahomes retires.

Midwest (17)

NFL teams that already exist: Chicago Bears , Cincinnati Bengals , Cleveland Browns , Detroit Lions , Green Bay Packers , Indianapolis Colts , Kansas City Chiefs , Minnesota Vikings

The Midwest is the cradle of the NFL and has been a hotbed for professional football ever since. While it draws from Milwaukee and other areas, the success of the Packers into the 21st century proves a city with a modest population can support a successful football team at the highest level. The deep roots these teams have instilled in their communities will make it difficult for new franchises to compete, but there are a few landing spots that might add fun new rivalries to already-historic battles.

Rockford, Illinois : Given the sheer number of people in the area, there's room for a third football team in Illinois and Wisconsin outside of Chicago and Green Bay. I mentioned the issues with Milwaukee, and Madison is still going to be Packers country. Rockford might be suburban enough to attract some separate fanbase, plus whichever Bears fans have been worn down by nearly 40 years of heartbreak and bad quarterback play.

Fort Wayne, Indiana : Going east of Chicago and north of Indianapolis, Fort Wayne is far enough removed from either city to have a case for forming its own football identity. The city supported a professional football team in the past, although the Fort Wayne Friars faded out of existence after the 1920 season. There are five different current NFL cities that could potentially consider Fort Wayne part of their catchment area, which would make it a fun landing spot for its own team.

Columbus, Ohio : Add a sixth team surrounding Fort Wayne to that list in Columbus, which has been in love with college football for generations. A Columbus team would find it tough to compete with the already-existing affinity for the Buckeyes , but we've seen the Crew thrive in MLS after efforts to move the franchise were thwarted. Steelers and Browns fans might stick with their prior affinities, but there should be enough of a Columbus-specific fanbase to build matchups with those juggernauts if they end up competing together.

Louisville, Kentucky : Kentucky is another state seeing its professional football team count jumping from zero to two. Northern Kentucky is Bengals country, but Louisville is 100 miles southwest of Cincinnati and has its own built-in interest in football (and a stadium) with the Cardinals . Indoor teams haven't fared well in Louisville, but maybe an outdoor team would resonate more consistently.

Lexington, Kentucky : Louisville would also have a built-in rivalry with another college town in Kentucky that is about to land a professional team. With two teams about 80 miles away, there's a chance the two potential fanbases could cannibalize one another and be too small to support either team. With nearly a million people between the two cities, though, Kentucky has enough people to support two professional football teams, even if some fans decide to stick with Joe Burrow & Co.

Wichita, Kansas : With Kansas in the news as it attempts to convince the Chiefs to leave Kansas City , a more realistic solution might be to leave the Chiefs in Missouri and get Kansas its own team. Putting a team just over the border as a local rival to the Chiefs might be fun, but going 200 miles southwest to Wichita would provide a larger population base in a relatively isolated area. The Chiefs might still be Wichita's closest rivals, with our new team in Tulsa also coming into play.

Des Moines, Iowa : If Iowa can support multiple high-level college football teams, it should be able to support one professional football team. This could also be a spot for Cedar Rapids, but having this team in Des Moines creates a I-35 rivalry with two existing teams: the Chiefs and Vikings. If it wants to go with history, the Des Moines franchise could pull out the Warriors nickname, owed to a team that played in the little-remembered Professional Football League of America for three years in the 1960s.

Omaha, Nebraska : While Lincoln is the historic center of football in Nebraska because of the Cornhuskers , Omaha is a larger population and feels more likely to support a professional team. Omaha is more commonly associated with baseball by virtue of its Triple-A team and the College World Series , but it hosted a UFL team in the prior version of the league from 2009 to 2012.

St. Louis, Missouri : Duh. St. Louis never should have lost its team to begin with. At the very least, with the Rams leaving to return to Los Angeles in 2016, St. Louis should have been put in position to land an expansion team. With the UFL's Battlehawks getting more than 40,000 people to attend their home opener in April, it's clear St. Louis has both the appetite and fanbase for pro football. This would be a long overdue righting of a wrong.

NFL teams that already exist: Denver Broncos

With sparsely populated states such as Montana and the Dakotas gaining population after the pandemic, there are a few natural landing spots for potential cities. Do they have the sheer number of people to sell 80,000 tickets to most home games? Probably not. In a country with 100 professional football teams, could they passionately support teams in smaller stadiums? Absolutely.

Salt Lake City, Utah : One obvious choice, given that SLC already has the Jazz and just added the former Arizona Coyotes to its roster. With more than a million people in its metro area, Salt Lake City would be the one city we're adding in the West that wouldn't have much trouble at all filling an NFL-sized stadium with fans.

Boise, Idaho : Would this team play on the blue turf ? The capital city has come out in droves to support Boise State , and it would be able to draw on both its own population, the rest of Idaho and potentially Eastern Oregon. Its closest rivals might be in Salt Lake City, more than 300 miles away. There are going to be lots of flights between teams in the West.

Laramie, Wyoming : Nearly 700 miles to the east, Wyoming's lone team in the 100 will be in Laramie for two reasons. One is the presence of a stadium, thanks to the University of Wyoming . I don't believe there are any other major football stadiums across Wyoming, which doesn't have the population to support many large facilities. The other benefit is that Laramie is 130 miles away from Denver, which sets up a natural rivalry with the Broncos. By the standards of teams in this part of the country, a two-hour drive might as well be walking distance.

Bozeman, Montana : Another new state for professional football! While Billings is the biggest city in Montana by a considerable margin, Bozeman is rapidly growing and already has a 20,000-seat football stadium for Montana State . With the popularity of the "Yellowstone" TV show growing the city, Bozeman might only be a couple more spin-offs away from requiring a larger park for its new team.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota : South Dakota gets its team. One option would be to put it in Vermillion with the University of South Dakota , but we're going 65 miles to the north for a larger population and an airport. Our new team will need to win the hearts and minds of South Dakotans who have otherwise adopted the Vikings, but Minneapolis is more than 230 miles away. We can make this work, especially given that there's going to be some competition in North Dakota.

Bismarck, North Dakota : Bismarck is one of North Dakota's two teams in the 100. Who suspected that? Bismarck doesn't have a significant outdoor football presence, but it has had various indoor teams throughout the years, and the University of Mary is planning to build a new football stadium in town.

Fargo, North Dakota : If North Dakota State can send two quarterbacks into the top three picks of the NFL draft, why not cut out the middleman and just get a pro team in Fargo? The Fargodome holds 19,000, which would be a perfect size for a city of just over 130,000 people. About three hours between both Bismarck and Minneapolis, Fargo would probably have a tougher time shedding its purple and yellow jerseys. Bringing Carson Wentz and Trey Lance back to throw passes for the new team might help.

Pacific Northwest (3)

NFL team that already exists: Seattle Seahawks

While the Seahawks enjoy enormous popularity in the Seattle area, there's enough of a population here to support multiple teams. Across the border, the BC Lions just announced an attendance of nearly 54,000 fans for their CFL home opener earlier this month. Leaving Vancouver aside, I can see room for two more teams to rival the Seahawks:

Portland, Oregon : While there are certainly people in Portland who root for the Seahawks by default, that would change quickly if Oregon's largest city landed a football team. Think about the rivalry between the Trail Blazers and Sonics in the NBA or, in more recent years, between the Sounders and Timbers in MLS. This would instantly become one of the most entertaining local fistfights in the league.

Spokane, Washington : Again, by default, the people of Spokane have little choice but to be Seahawks fans if they want to support a "local" NFL team. With the city nearly 300 miles east of Seattle, they could just as easily have their own team and draw fans from the nearby area. This team could also be in Pullman, where Washington State has a huge stadium, about 75 miles south of Spokane. If the state can support a legendary rivalry between two college football teams, why not a pro rivalry, too?

California (11)

NFL teams that already exist: Los Angeles Chargers , Los Angeles Rams , San Francisco 49ers

With Los Angeles already supporting two teams and the Bay Area hosting two of their own before the Raiders moved to Las Vegas, it's clear the state's biggest population centers have little trouble mustering up fans for multiple pro teams. If anything, while there are two imported teams playing in Inglewood , I wonder if a truly homegrown team might be able to surpass them both. We're adding a handful of teams to both Northern and Southern California, including one that shouldn't have lost a franchise to begin with:

San Diego : Give it the Chargers identity back and let the team that moved to Los Angeles find its own. San Diego State University 's Snapdragon Stadium now sits on the land that was once the Chargers' home, and while it's about half of the prior venue's size, having a smaller, more intimate stadium isn't the worst thing in the world. Ask the current Chargers about playing in front of a huge stadium filled with the other team's fans on a weekly basis.

Anaheim : While Orange County might only be about 40 miles south of Inglewood and the two current Los Angeles teams, anyone who has driven in Southern California knows the pain of trying to get to and from Los Angeles if you're outside the area. With a team in Anaheim attracting fans from Irvine and Santa Ana, football obsessives wouldn't need to make the trek into Los Angeles. The Rams played at Angel Stadium for 15 years before their move to St. Louis; the nearly 60-year-old stadium could be the home of another team if given the opportunity.

San Bernardino : Yes, the Inland Empire is getting its own team. There's a Single-A stadium for the Inland Empire 66ers in San Bernardino, which gives it the tiniest of nods over the more densely populated Riverside for the home of our team. In the same metro area, the San Bernardino franchise could call on a base of nearly 600,000 fans between itself and Riverside alone. That population base hasn't landed much more than minor league baseball in years past, but here's an opportunity to sink its teeth into football.

Bakersfield : Likewise, Bakersfield is expanding beyond minor league baseball to land its first major professional sports team in our 100. Bakersfield College has a stadium that holds just under 20,000 people on its campus, which is probably the appropriate size for a city that hasn't necessarily shown itself to be a football-loving town. As with other cities in California, though, it's tough to see the population -- more than 400,000 -- and not dream that a local team would draw crowds.

Fresno : Going further north, Fresno would give Central California a long overdue team at the highest level. There's college football and minor league baseball here, but outside of a couple forays in the Arena League, there hasn't been a significant professional outdoor team. Fresno State 's stadium has expanded over the years to seat more than 40,000 people; if a Fresno team plays well, the city should be able to serve as serious competition for other teams in the state.

San Jose/San Francisco : This is a complicated one. The 49ers are obviously the toast of San Francisco and have been for decades, but they play their games in Santa Clara, 40 miles south of where Candlestick Park once stood. While that's not an impossible trek for dedicated 49ers fans, it's essentially occupying two valuable metros in one fell swoop, as Santa Clara is next to San Jose.

In this universe, we're forcing the 49ers to make a choice. If they want to stay in Santa Clara, that's fine! They're going to become the San Jose franchise, and a team with the 49ers logos and history will sprout up in San Francisco. If the 49ers are willing to move back and actually play in the San Francisco area, we'll build a new franchise for San Jose. I wonder where they could play.

Sacramento : The state capital is far away enough from both San Francisco and San Jose to justify its own team. The existence of the Kings doesn't infringe on the Warriors in the NBA. The Sacramento Mountain Lions lasted four years in the original UFL before it folded, but they bounced around stadiums in San Francisco and San Jose before taking turns in different spots in Sacramento. The last of those destinations was the Sacramento River Cats' stadium, a building which is now destined to host MLB's Athletics before their move to Vegas. A pro football team would be a more dignified guest than the A's.

Oakland : Speaking of the Athletics, we're going to stop the outflux of teams from the East Bay. The Warriors built a building across the Bay in San Francisco, the Raiders moved to Vegas and the Athletics are eventually going to follow them out of town. Let them leave. A new franchise won't have the history or cachet of the Raiders -- and some fans will stick with the Vegas edition -- but there has to be something in a team that actually plans on sticking around and laying down roots in the East Bay.

Outside the 48 contiguous states (3)

While they're not conventional destinations for professional sports teams, the biggest cities outside the lower 48 should have both the population and passion to support football franchises. While they would endure some arduous trips to road games, these teams would also have significant home-field advantages when they hosted opponents.

Honolulu, Hawaii : On the other hand, while the various New York teams would endure a flight of nearly 11 hours to land in Honolulu, nobody ever gets mad about ending up in Hawaii. Anyone who stays up too late on Saturday nights has seen how the local area supports the Rainbow Warriors , and there has been a steady stream of Hawaiian high school talent out to the mainland, with quarterbacks Marcus Mariota and Tua Tagovailoa as notable examples. Could our Hawaiian team convince a majority of those exports to return and play at home?

San Juan, Puerto Rico : Baseball has always been the most popular sport in Puerto Rico, but the island supported a semi-pro league in the past. This would be an "if they build it" scenario for a franchise; not many teams will be able to reach a larger untapped audience than San Juan, which has more than 340,000 residents. Building the first major league team in an untested location can lead to spectacular results, even if it's not an area known for a particular sport; while it's a much larger landing spot, ask the Golden Knights whether they regret taking a shot on hockey in Vegas.

Anchorage, Alaska : This is the toughest of the three potential fits outside the lower 48. The cultural home of football in Alaska might be Fairbanks, which had a minor indoor team as recently as 2011, but that's six hours away from the population base in Anchorage, where there's about seven times as many people. It feels right to have a team in Alaska, although Floridian teams won't love flying 10 hours to make it to Anchorage.

Florida (7)

NFL teams that already exist: Jacksonville Jaguars , Miami Dolphins , Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Speaking of Florida, let's head all the way southeast across America and add some competition in the Sunshine State. The Dolphins dominate the state outside the pockets around Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, but there are plenty of cities that could easily justify having a team to call their own.

Fort Lauderdale : We'll start by building a derby. If you've ever been in Fort Lauderdale and thought the traffic was too awful to drive the 30 miles or so to Miami, this team is for you! As adjoining cities with differing identities, a Fort Lauderdale team could try to carve out a very different sort of existence from its neighbor in Miami. Fewer crypto sponsorships , maybe. With so much talent coming out of the Miami area, there should be enough in the way of homecomings to support two teams.

Fort Myers : Across Alligator Alley, there's enough of a burgeoning city in Fort Myers to justify its own team. Fans there could theoretically drive across the state to Miami or 130 miles north to get to Tampa, but between Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Naples, there are plenty of fans who could support a team in Southwestern Florida. With some expansion work, the new franchise could make use of the spring training facilities in town from September to January.

Orlando : Central Florida's biggest city still only has one team across the four traditional men's sports in the Magic , which seems surprising. The since-renamed Citrus Bowl hosted AAF and XFL teams without much success, but local fans have gotten behind UCF football in their 45,000-seat stadium. If you give them a competitive product, Orlando will get behind a team. The ample tourism to the area will also help.

Tallahassee : With nearly 80,000 people packing Doak S. Campbell Stadium for Florida State home games during the fall, there's no shortage of football history in Tallahassee. There's also enough of a gap between it and the rest of Florida's teams to help build up an audience beyond FSU students; Jacksonville, 165 miles away, would be its closest opponent.

You could make a case for Gainesville or even West Palm Beach, but Tallahassee's location in Northwest Florida completes the state's enrollment of seven teams into our 100.

Southeast (10)

NFL teams that already exist: Atlanta Falcons , Carolina Panthers , Tennessee Titans

There's no doubting the passion for football in the Southeast, but much of that passion is reserved for the longstanding rivalries of the SEC. In this universe, some of those cities have been drafted into our 100-team league, both for their history and for their adjacency to nearby major population centers.

Auburn, Alabama : Take Auburn . The Tigers don't require much of an introduction. Jordan-Hare Stadium is a readymade base for our new franchise. About 35 miles away over the border with Georgia, Columbus is the home of one of the most successful indoor football teams of the past two decades in the Columbus Lions. Adding a team here to the border fills in the area between Atlanta, Birmingham and Tallahassee. Given the presence of Fort Moore nearby, a military tie-in for this franchise's branding makes sense.

Mobile, Alabama : Let's also add a team from the Gulf Coast. Mobile already has a football tradition as the annual host of the Senior Bowl , where the host stadium holds just over 25,000 people. Mobile would be another team in our Battle for I-10, starting with San Antonio in the west and making its way through Houston, New Orleans, Mobile and Tallahassee before ending up more than 1,000 miles to the east in Jacksonville. Call it the Battle for Buc-ee's .

Columbia, South Carolina : While Augusta also would have been an option, we're bypassing the home of the Masters for one of our teams in South Carolina. The Gamecocks already have a stadium that holds more than 77,000 people on campus, so there wouldn't be much of a need to add infrastructure for our new team. With two other new teams just over 100 miles away in different directions, Columbia could remain the centerpiece of football in the Palmetto State or lose some of its market share to other major cities.

Knoxville, Tennessee : It would seem foolish to not include the home of the Volunteers as an option. Knoxville is a big enough city in its own right for a franchise, and Nashville is far enough away to avoid infringing on its fanbase. Would Titans fans who went to Tennessee abandon their pro team for the opportunity to root for a Knoxville franchise? My guess is they would.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama : You probably saw this one coming, as well. Most minor and/or spring football leagues have tried placing a football team in Birmingham, which makes sense; there's a large population base and a huge passion for football in Alabama. That usually hasn't led to the expected results. Here, the team's playing 55 miles away on the Alabama campus. Maybe the muscle memory will kick in and get more fans to attend.

Charleston, South Carolina : Moving back to the Atlantic coastline, it makes sense to put a team in either Charleston or Savannah. Charleston's steadily growing population made it a logical pick. The Citadel also has an 11,500-seat stadium in town, although I'd imagine a successful pro team could command larger crowds. Wilmington feels like a natural rival, but there's not enough sports infrastructure in the town; it could be another expansion team if we were stretching this out to 125 or 150.

Raleigh, North Carolina : On the other hand, Raleigh was one of the first cities on the list for our 100. I'm not sure the Panthers would be thrilled by the idea of adding a team 150 miles or so away to the Northeast, but their feelings don't matter in this exercise. Raleigh has 1.5 million people in its metro area and already supports one professional sports team in the NHL's Hurricanes . The Triangle already has a significant football presence on the Duke and North Carolina campuses, but Carter-Finley Stadium at NC State can comfortably support enough fans within the Raleigh city limits.

Mid-Atlantic (6)

NFL teams that already exist: Washington Commanders , Baltimore Ravens

Let's work our way up the coast and add more teams in the mid-Atlantic area. Baltimore and Washington could be considered part of the Northeast, but several of the teams joining the 100 here are going to be local rivals from the population bases that have sprouted up around Washington. The Commanders would have had a stranglehold on these areas in decades past, but after the Daniel Snyder era, there's room for challengers to arise.

Alexandria, Virginia : There are a number of places west of the Potomac that would make sense for a potential new franchise, especially if the Commanders end up staying where they are or move back into D.C. Take Woodbridge, which isn't exactly a major city, but it's where the Commanders were reportedly buying land as part of a potential plan for a new stadium in the Virginia suburbs. Alexandria has a much more significant population base, is on the D.C. Metro and recently flirted with getting the Capitals and Wizards to move to a new development.

Richmond, Virginia : The state capital, on the other hand, is far enough south to support its own team without considering the shadow of the Ravens or Commanders. There would still be ties to the Commanders given they were the only team in town for a long time, but Richmond already has a modest stadium in town that could be expanded with the appropriate level of demand.

Norfolk, Virginia : Yes, a third new team in Virginia! Ninety miles to the Southeast, Norfolk could call on a variety of cities in the nearby area to help build demand, including Newport News, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach. There are more than 1.1 million people between those four cities. Norfolk gets the nod by virtue of having the largest football stadium in the area, with Old Dominion 's S.B. Ballard Stadium holding 21,000-plus people.

Charleston, West Virginia : We're also adding a new team to the Mountain State. Charleston fills in a large gap without teams, and because of its isolation, there might not be many other opponents within a comfortable driving distance. Its closest rival would probably be Lexington, 175 miles to the west, although there would be a natural capital city battle between Charleston and Richmond.

Northeast (6)

NFL teams that already exist : New England Patriots , Philadelphia Eagles , Pittsburgh Steelers

We're leaving New York and New Jersey aside for our final section. Here's where two states, unfortunately, miss out on their own franchises. Delaware's small size and proximity to Philadelphia make it Eagles country. The Patriots play in Foxborough, Massachusetts, which is closer to Providence (22 miles) than the city the team nominally represents in Boston (30 miles). It ends up occupying both states in our scenario, so while Rhode Island technically doesn't have a team, it's really getting the Patriots.

The Patriots are New England's team, which means they'd either have to change their name or occupy much of the rest of the region. Let's make them the Massachusetts Patriots. In the end, I felt like the best place for a team in Vermont was just outside of the state. I'll get to that team in the New York section, but let's touch on the teams that will challenge Drake Maye & Co. for prominence in New England.

Portland, Maine : With Durham just over the New Hampshire border and Portland 45 minutes away from the state line, this could be something closer to a shared team between the two states. (We'll get a Manchester team in the leap to 125 teams after the first 100 are so successful.) The East Coast's Portland is thriving as a tourist destination, and with the city already supporting a successful Red Sox farm team in the Sea Dogs, there's some proof Portland will come out for sports. Fitzpatrick Stadium is going to support a USL team, but with 6,000 seats, it's probably going to need to grow if the new football franchise gains prominence.

Durham, New Hampshire : New Hampshire was one of the toughest decisions on the list. Do you put the team in Manchester, which has the largest population of any city in the state, but is also just 50 miles from Boston and likely still to be Patriots country even after we expand to 100 teams? Or do you put it in Durham, which only has a population of about 17,000 people, but a recently renovated stadium on the UNH campus and 20 miles of further distance from Boston? I went with the stadium in the hopes they could draw on potential fans from the west and even southern parts of Maine, although Manchester might end up being the better choice.

Hartford, Connecticut : After the conversation that spurred this debate, it only seems fair for Hartford to also land a team. Connecticut has been shut out of major professional sports since the Whalers left for Carolina in 1997, but there are a number of minor league teams and 1.2 million people in the Hartford metro area alone. Connecticut ends up often becoming a middle ground for sports fans who pick between the teams from Boston and New York; here, it would finally get its own team to adopt once again.

New York/New Jersey (8)

NFL teams that already exist : Buffalo Bills , New York Giants , New York Jets

We'll finish by fixing something ridiculous that has existed for decades. The Bills have understandably carved out Western New York for themselves. The Giants and Jets have spent nearly a half-century playing in New Jersey, even though many of their fans live in New York and all the way further north in Connecticut. Fans who live in New Jersey have to root for teams in New York, a rival state. Nets fans didn't love it when the team moved to Brooklyn. There's no reason we should tolerate this any longer.

So, we're giving the Giants and Jets a choice. They can move back to New York or lose their names. In this scenario, they're staying put to stay in their stadium, and we're sprinkling new teams around New York. Fans can decide if they want to keep commuting to North Jersey or support a local team that is a short hop away.

Downtown Manhattan, New York : The biggest city in America has zero professional teams playing the country's most popular sport within its city limits. That needs to change. The attempt to build a stadium on the west side of Manhattan failed for myriad reasons and is no longer viable. This stadium would eventually be on reclaimed land south of Battery Park, potentially if that land joins up with Governors Island.

Bronx, New York : I believe New York City could support a half-dozen high-level teams if there was space for their stadiums, but with a recently built stadium already in place for the Yankees , the next logical landing place for a team north of Central Park would be in the Bronx. With easy access and already-existing infrastructure, the biggest issue here would be keeping the grass in good shape.

Brooklyn, New York : With more than 2.6 million people in Brooklyn, the borough clearly had the population to support sports teams for decades between the departure of the Dodgers in 1957 and the arrival of the Nets (and briefly the Islanders ) in 2012. The Brooklyn Navy Yard would be one potential landing spot for a stadium, although options further south or west might have better public transportation links and create more differentiation from the teams in Manhattan. The Cyclones have thrived with a baseball stadium in Coney Island; could a football team follow?

Queens/Long Island, New York : Jets fans abound east of Manhattan, but after decades of misery, are you really enjoying taking two trains and a shuttle (or leaving four hours before the game in a car) to get to a stadium named after your local rivals? I'd love to see the Jets be the ones to move to Queens or Long Island to serve their fanbase appropriately, either by moving back in with the Mets or building a stadium that's accessible via LIRR. If the Jets stay in New Jersey, well, there are 10 million people between Long Island and Queens. A few of them will choose to support a team that doesn't play in another state.

Albany, New York : And finally, after all that, our 100th team is competition for the Bills. The New York state capital is in somewhat of a no-man's land. Buffalo is nearly 300 miles away. Boston is 170 miles to the east. Hartford is closer, but you're still looking at a significant drive to get to a local team if Albany doesn't have one. Syracuse has more football infrastructure, but it's also close enough to Buffalo to remain faithful to the Bills. Albany is 35 miles or so from the Vermont border and could also draw fans from Western Massachusetts. A team that fills in gaps among three different states feels like the appropriate final team for our 100.

The full map: All 100 potential franchises in the U.S.

Supreme Court allows cities to enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outside, even if shelter space is lacking

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court cleared the way for cities to enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outside in public places on Friday, overturning a California appeals court ruling that found such laws amount to cruel and unusual punishment when shelter space is lacking.

The case is the most significant to come before the high court in decades on the issue and comes as a rising number of people in the U.S. are without a permanent place to live .

In a 6-3 decision along ideological lines, the high court found that outdoor sleeping bans don’t violate the Eighth Amendment.

Western cities had argued that the ruling made it harder to manage outdoor encampments in public spaces , but homeless advocates said punishing people who need a place to sleep would criminalize homelessness.

In California, which is home to one-third of the country’s homeless population, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom said the decision gives state and local officials authority to clear “unsafe encampments” from the streets under policies that respect fundamental human needs. “This decision removes the legal ambiguities that have tied the hands of local officials for years,” he said.

Justice Neil Gorsuch acknowledged those concerns in the opinion he wrote for the majority.

“Homelessness is complex. Its causes are many. So may be the public policy responses required to address it,” he wrote. “A handful of federal judges cannot begin to ‘match’ the collective wisdom the American people possess in deciding ‘how best to handle’ a pressing social question like homelessness.”

He suggested that people who have no choice but to sleep outdoors could raise that as a “necessity defense,” if they are ticketed or otherwise punished for violating a camping ban.

Homeless advocates, on the other hand, have said that allowing cities to punish people who need a place to sleep would ultimately make the crisis worse. Cities had been allowed to regulate encampments under a U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling but couldn’t completely bar people from sleeping outdoors.

“Sleep is a biological necessity, not a crime,” said Justice Sonia Sotomayor, reading from the bench a dissent joined by her liberal colleagues. “Homelessness is a reality for so many Americans.”

Punishing people for something they can’t control, like homelessness, is cruel and unusual, she said. She warned that striking down Eighth Amendment arguments against camping bans likely won’t end the fights over the ordinances in court.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, a Democrat, criticized the majority ruling, saying cities shouldn’t “attempt to arrest their way out of this problem or hide the homelessness crisis in neighboring cities or in jail.” The only way to truly address it, she said, is to connect people with housing and services.

The case came from the rural Oregon town of Grants Pass , which appealed a ruling striking down local ordinances that fined people $295 for sleeping outside after tents began crowding public parks. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, which has jurisdiction over the nine Western states, has held since 2018 that such bans violate the Eighth Amendment in areas where there aren’t enough shelter beds.

Grants Pass Mayor Sara Bristol told The Associated Press that the city will not immediately start enforcing those local ordinances fining people for sleeping outside and that the city council will need to review the decision and determine the next steps.

“This lawsuit was about whether cities have a right to enforce camping restrictions in public spaces, and I’m relieved that Grants Pass will be able to reclaim our city parks for recreation,” said Bristol, who serves in a nonpartisan position. “Homelessness is a complex issue, and our community has been trying to find solutions.”

Attorney Theane Evangelis, who represented Grants Pass before the high court, applauded the ruling, saying the 9th Circuit decision had “tied the hands of local governments.”

“Years from now, I hope that we will look back on today’s watershed ruling as the turning point in America’s homelessness crisis,” she said.

In Portland, though, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office said the effect of the ruling would likely be muted since the state has separate legal limits on how cities can manage encampments. Seattle officials also expected a limited impact.

An attorney for homeless people who live in the town bemoaned the decision.

“We are disappointed that a majority of the court has decided that our Constitution allows a city to punish its homeless residents simply for sleeping outside with a blanket to survive the cold when there is nowhere else for them to go,” said Ed Johnson, director of litigation at the Oregon Law Center.

Friday’s ruling comes after homelessness in the United States grew a dramatic 12% last year to its highest reported level, as soaring rents and a decline in coronavirus pandemic assistance combined to put housing out of reach for more people.

More than 650,000 people are estimated to be homeless , the most since the country began using a yearly point-in-time survey in 2007. A lack of access to mental health and addiction resources can contribute to the crisis. Older adults, LGBTQ+ people and people of color are disproportionately affected by homelessness, advocates said.

Nearly half of people without housing sleep outside, federal data shows.

Derrick Belgarde, executive director of the Chief Seattle Club, a nonprofit that provides shelter, housing and other resources for Native Americans, said there’s a reason people may choose to sleep outside, explaining that before his organization was started members of the Native American population in the area weren’t using shelters because they didn’t feel safe in them or feel as though they belonged.

“I think it’s going to cause a lot of pain, a lot of misery to deny people the right to safety, to feel safe, to feel a sense of belonging. It’s going to be devastating for a lot of people,” said Belgarde, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

The 9th Circuit decision had governed nine states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

Associated Press writers Rebecca Santana in Washington, D.C., John Antczak in Los Angeles, Hallie Golden in Seattle and Adam Beam in Sacramento, Calif., contributed to this story.

Follow the AP’s coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court at https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court .

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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9 of the best places in the US to escape the crowds

Jun 28, 2024 • 9 min read

Stand in awe of the Temple of the Sun in Capitol Reef National Park © ToTheHeightsPhoto / Shutterstock

With its epic expanse and diversity of landscapes, it seems like it should be easy to find some solitude in the USA .

But that's not always the case, with some of the country's beauty spots getting clogged with visitors, particularly during the summer high season . That's why we asked our expert writers and staff to share some of their favorite places in the country to find some space.

Here are 9 of the best places in the US to escape the crowds. 

1. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah 

Recommended by Deepa Lakshmin

The thing about hiking at popular national parks is that you will inevitably get stuck in a bottleneck waiting to scramble over a rock or shuffle through a narrow path. That can kill the mood, so I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet Capitol Reef – one of  Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks  – was.

I hiked two trails, Sulfur Creek and Cohab Canyon, that were gloriously empty. Following Sulfur Creek through slot canyons and over waterfalls was my favorite, because the 5.8-mile trek feels completely untouched by humans. No trail markers, no signs, no bathrooms, no trash cans: just you in the wild. (And preferably a guide who knows where to go. I’m a newbie hiker and wouldn’t do this solo, especially because the water level can rise as high as your chest depending on conditions.)

Stay in Torrey, UT for easy access to the park; I checked out the new Skyview Hotel on a trip last year , which is ideal for glamping under the stars. There aren’t a ton of accommodation or dining options in such a small town, but that also means there’s really no wrong choice. Wild Rabbit Cafe is a must for breakfast, and have a nice sit-down dinner at Hunt & Gather . Fun extras are a cider tasting at Etta Place and a massage at Red Sands’ spa . Your muscles will thank you after all that trekking.

2. Montana Badlands

Recommended by Bailey Freeman

Montana’s mountains may attract most of the state’s attention , but its eastern badlands are perfect for those looking to truly escape it all. Characterized by striking landscapes, dinosaur fossils, dark skies, and a perplexing lack of tourists, this well-kept secret will illuminate Earth’s staggering history – with hardly another visitor in sight. 

Hike through the pyramid-like mounds that punctuate the prairie in the Terry Badlands , or camp on top of the banded cliffs that make the whole area look like a painting. Just down the road, you can also wander the otherworldly hoodoos and cliffsides of Makoshika State Park , one of Montana’s hot spots for dinosaur fossils; both Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils have been found here, and scientists are discovering more specimens all the time. At night, the sky opens up to a flood of stars that overlook the ancient terrain; bring a telescope or a camera and scope out the wonders of the heavens.

3. Coldfoot, Alaska

Recommended by Erin Kirkland

Unpretentious and built for function in Alaska’s far north, the tiny community of Coldfoot delivers for people wanting to experience Alaska’s remote spaces and adventurous activities . Essential as a truck stop for drivers transiting the Dalton Highway across the Arctic Circle, visitors arrive via auto (note that most rental agencies will not allow travel along this mostly gravel road) along the highway, or by air, thanks to several small carriers out of Fairbanks , 253 miles south. 

Coldfoot sits at the base of the stunning Brooks Range and provides access to year-round recreation. From June 1 to mid-September, stop at the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center for information, maps, ranger-led presentations, and interpretive displays showing the region’s history. Coldfoot Camp can assist travelers wanting to hike or raft deeper into the Brooks Range and Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve or Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , with gear and guides provided. In the fall and winter months, Coldfoot becomes a top place to view the sweeping and colorful northern lights . Nightly tours departing from Coldfoot Camp with options to add snowshoeing or fat biking to the adventure.

4. Hovenweep National Monument, Four Corners, USA

Recommended by Liz Prado

Surrounded by high desert and stunning red rock canyons, Hovenweep National Monument is a little-visited archaeological zone in the Four Corners region, where  Arizona , New Mexico , Colorado and Utah meet. It’s a place to escape the throngs at nearby national parks and imagine what life was like long ago. The one-time home of the Ancestral Puebloans, Hovenweep is a cluster of six ancient villages built between 1200 and 1300 CE and peppered across Colorado, Utah and the Navajo Nation. Wide expanses of dirt roads and trails connect the sites, a treasure trove of teetering towers and sacred kivas perched on canyon rims. 

The largest and easiest to access is the Square Tower Group , a clutch of well-preserved structures along a 2-mile trail near the visitor center in Utah . There’s a first-come-first-served campground as well as ranger-led programming. The other archaeological sites are between 4 and 9 miles away; before heading out, ask about trail and road conditions and grab a map as GPS is unreliable and cell service almost nil. Wherever you explore, stay for the stargazing – Hovenweep is also one of the world’s rare gold-tier International Dark Sky Parks, where up to 15,000 stars can be seen on cloudless nights.

5. Superstition Mountains, Arizona

Recommended by Melissa Yeager

Eager hikers visiting Phoenix swarm iconic Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale to get a photo from the humpback-shaped mountain for their Instagram. The resulting crowds along the less-hiking, more-bouldering route make it one of my least favorite hiking experiences in Arizona. Break free of the crowd, and take the drive east on Hwy 60 to the Superstition Mountains . The desert dazzles in this area, with stunning saguaro cacti and views for days. 

Hieroglyphic Trail will give you a less intense hike with the payoff of seeing petroglyphs near a waterfall. More intermediate hikers will find  Fremont Saddle a delightful route. (Bring a lunch to enjoy at the top as you rest and admire sweeping views of Weavers Needles.)  Experienced hikers looking for a rugged challenge can hike and climb the boulders for a spectacular view of the region from the top of Flat Iron. The Superstitions are gorgeous but wild. Cell service in the area is scarce, and in some places you’ll need a car that can navigate unpaved roads.  Make sure to bring enough water for your trip as trailheads may not have public water dispensers. 

6. The Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

Recommended by Ann Douglas Lott

Surrounded by Virginia ’s Blue Ridge Mountains and West Virginia’s Alleghany Mountains, with the Shenandoah River flowing its entire length, this 140-mile stretch of paradise is often overshadowed by the majestic mountain ranges of the western US. But this place practically begs to be your next scenic road trip . Drive the curving roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline Drive , or meander along wide open back roads (or follow I-81 if you’re short on time), stopping into charming, historic small towns like Staunton, Harrisonburg and Lexington for antiquing and brewery-hopping. Chill out at sprawling vineyards , pick up fresh bread from a local farm or relax under curtains of fragrant lavender at a lavender farm . Then get outside and trek a section of the Appalachian Trail found inside the state’s big and beautiful beast: Shenandoah National Park . The slogan “Virginia is for lovers” rings true in the Shenandoah Valley. Life moves enchantingly slowly, and the romance of the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains is undeniable. Oh, and once you’ve experienced your first Shenandoah sunset, you’re hooked. 

7. Bellingham, Washington 

Recommended by Chamidae Ford 

In western Washington , trees and waterfront collide for unmatched beauty. If you’re looking for a town that truly encapsulates the PNW spirit but lacks the crowds, Bellingham is for you. Nestled 30 minutes from the Canadian border, Bellingham is a quaint and idyllic oasis bursting with outdoor activities. Opt for a slight detour along Chuckunut Drive rather than I-5 to fully experience the region's beauty. Chuckanut provides excellent views of Sammish and Bellingham Bay, with tons of hikes (Oyster Dome is a favorite) and viewpoint stop-offs. 

In town, grab lunch at Mambo Italiano — the sandwiches made with in-house focaccia are unforgettable. Browse the indie bookstore, Village Books , for your next great read, and in the summer, head to their lawn on Mondays for an outdoor movie. Ride your bike along the bay or enjoy a sunset picnic along the water at Boulevard Park. You can’t visit the PNW without stopping by one of the numerous breweries in the area; it's a classic local hang. Otherlands Beer is a stellar option for top-notch brews and good vibes. And when you need a late-night snack, stop by the beloved college haunt, AB Crepes .

8. Channel Islands National Park, California 

Recommended by Brekke Fletcher

If you’re looking to get off the grid and are willing to hop on a boat, then the Channel Islands National Park is for you. Located off the coast of Southern California, between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles , this wildly wonderful archipelago carries the distinction of being one of California ’s least-visited national parks. To get there, you’ll need to take a tour with an outfit like  Island Packers , which provides two points of departure from Ventura and Oxnard. 

Five islands make up the park: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa and tiny, southern Santa Barbara, which is much further south. Visiting any one of them allows you to see and experience a place that is mostly as it was for tens of thousands of years. From land and sea, behold stunning, rugged landscapes and look out for some of the 150 plant species and a few animals that are unique to the islands. If you wish to lengthen your time on the islands there are several campgrounds for overnight stays you can reserve in advance. And if you plan to visit between June and November, you can add whale-watching to your excursion.

9. Jayuya, Puerto Rico

Recommended by John Garry

Just a domestic flight from the mainland US, travelers heading to  Puerto Rico and searching for solitude should head to Jayuya, nestled in the Central Mountains. Here, crowds of a different kind dominate – like choirs of coqui frogs and gangs of roving roosters. Legend says native Taíno populations escaped Spanish persecution by hiding in the Central Mountains until the mid-19th century, and now, Jayuya serves as the island's Indigenous epicenter, with museums celebrating local heritage and ancient petroglyphs aplenty.

It's easy to see how Jayuya held on to its traditions. Imposing mountain peaks protect the town – including the 4398ft Cerro de Punta – and even today, the only way to get here is along razor-thin roads that twist and tumble like a roller coaster. Those who brave the journey reap major rewards: barely-trafficked hikes around Toro Negro State Forest , tiny group tours at working coffee farms like Hacienda San Pedro and jungle pools fed by waterfalls like Cascada Las Delicias. After a dip in Jayuya's chilly waters, head to La Destileria Craft Spirits for a taste of pitorro , a locally-made moonshine rum that will warm your soul.

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How to Watch the Biden-Trump Presidential Debate

The debate will be hosted by CNN from its Atlanta studios starting at 9 p.m. Eastern time on Thursday.

• Share full article

By Neil Vigdor

• Published June 25, 2024 Updated June 27, 2024

The moment has been four years in the making: President Biden and former President Donald J. Trump on a debate stage, another flashpoint in their long-running hostilities.

The debate, hosted by CNN at its Atlanta studios starting at 9 p.m. Eastern time on Thursday, will occur without an in-person audience and before Mr. Trump and Mr. Biden formally accept their parties’ nominations this summer, in a dramatic departure from the past.

Where can I watch it?

The New York Times will stream the debate alongside real-time commentary and analysis from reporters.

CNN will broadcast or stream the debate on all its platforms, including its flagship cable channel, as well as CNN International, CNN en Español and CNN Max. The network also plans to stream the debate on CNN.com.

CNN is also sharing its feed with other broadcast and cable news networks so that they could simulcast the debate. That means you can also watch it on Fox News, ABC News, NBC News and probably elsewhere.

Will Robert F. Kennedy Jr. be onstage?

No. He failed to meet CNN’s requirements, which means Ross Perot remains the last independent candidate to have qualified for a general election presidential debate — and that was in 1992. For this debate, participants had to receive at least 15 percent support in four approved national polls and qualify for the ballot in enough states to have the chance to earn the 270 electoral votes needed to win the presidency.

Who is moderating the debate?

The moderators will be Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, who are fixtures on the anchor desk at CNN and the hosts of the network’s Sunday political talk show, “ State of the Union .” Mr. Tapper is CNN’s chief Washington correspondent, and Ms. Bash is the network’s chief political correspondent.

Neil Vigdor covers politics for The Times, focusing on voting rights issues and election disinformation. More about Neil Vigdor

Keep Up With the 2024 Election

The presidential election is 131 days away . Here’s our guide to the run-up to Election Day.

Tracking the Polls. The state of the race, according to polling data.

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Campaign Tracker. How the candidates are spending their time on the campaign trail.

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